Harold Arlen, born on February 15, 1905 in Buffalo, NY, was a renowned composer who made a lasting impact on the music industry. Tragically, Arlen's twin brother passed away shortly after their birth, leaving him as the sole child in the family.
At a young age, Arlen showed a natural talent for music. He began playing the piano as a child, honing his skills and eventually working as a piano accompanist in vaudeville during his early twenties. It was during this time that he met Ted Koehler, with whom he would later collaborate on his first successful song, "Get Happy," in 1929.
One of Arlen's most iconic compositions came in 1939 when he and lyricist E.Y. "Yip" Harburg wrote the timeless classic "Over the Rainbow" for the film "The Wizard of Oz." The song, performed by Judy Garland, captured the hearts of audiences worldwide and earned Arlen and Harburg an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
Throughout the 1940s, Arlen enjoyed a successful collaboration with Johnny Mercer, producing a string of hit songs including "That Old Black Magic," "Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive," "Come Rain or Come Shine," and "One for My Baby (and One More for the Road)." His work with Mercer solidified his reputation as a masterful composer with a unique ability to craft emotionally resonant melodies.
In 1937, Arlen married his wife Anya Taranda, a model, showgirl, and actress. The couple lived a life filled with love and creativity, with Taranda serving as a source of inspiration for Arlen's music.
Harold Arlen's contributions to the music industry are immeasurable. His ability to capture the essence of human emotion in his compositions continues to resonate with audiences today. His timeless songs have been covered by countless artists and remain staples of the American songbook.
Despite facing personal hardships and tragedy early in his life, Harold Arlen rose above his circumstances to become one of the most celebrated composers of his time. His music remains a testament to the power of melody and the ability of art to transcend boundaries.