Harold Rome was born on May 27, 1908, in Hartford, Connecticut. He showed an interest in music from a young age and began studying piano and composing as a child. Despite his passion for music, Rome's parents encouraged him to pursue a more traditional career path. He attended Yale University, where he studied architecture and law. However, his love for music never waned, and he continued to compose songs in his spare time.
After graduating from Yale, Rome decided to pursue a career in music full-time. He moved to New York City, where he began working as a songwriter and composer. His big break came when he was hired to write the music and lyrics for the Broadway musical Pins and Needles in 1937. The show was a huge success and established Rome as a talented composer and lyricist.
Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, Rome continued to write songs for Broadway shows. Some of his most famous works include Sunday in the Park, Sing Me a Song with Social Significance, When We Meet Again, and All of a Sudden My Heart Sings. His songs were known for their catchy melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, and they often addressed social and political issues of the time.
Rome's most famous collaboration came in 1962, when he wrote the music and lyrics for the musical I Can Get It for You Wholesale. The show marked the Broadway debut of legendary actress Barbra Streisand and solidified Rome's reputation as one of the top composers in the industry.
Despite his busy career, Rome always made time for his family. He fathered a son named Joshua, who would later follow in his father's footsteps and pursue a career in music. Rome was known for his generosity and kindness, and he often mentored young composers and lyricists who were just starting out in the industry.
Harold Rome's contributions to Broadway and the music industry as a whole cannot be understated. His songs continue to be performed and appreciated to this day, and his influence can be seen in the work of countless composers and lyricists who came after him. Rome's legacy as a talented and innovative songwriter lives on, and his impact on the world of musical theatre remains as strong as ever.