E. Y. Harburg

One of America’s greatest lyricists for stage and screen, Yip Harburg (1896-1981) was the son of poor Russian-Jewish immigrants and attended CCNY. Also a book writer (usually with Fred Saidy), director, and poet, Harburg wrote lyrics for more than 550 songs, including “It’s Only A Paper Moon” (with Harold Arlen), “April in Paris” (with Vernon Duke) and “Brother, Can You Spare A Dime?” (with Jay Gorney). His landmark musicals were Bloomer Girl (with Arlen) and Finian’s Rainbow. Yip was the final editor and wrote lyrics and continuity for the universally loved film The Wizard of Oz.