Irving Berlin, born as Israel Baline in Siberia in 1888, was an iconic composer and musician known for creating American musical standards such as “White Christmas,” “Easter Parade,” and “God Bless America.” After his family immigrated to America to escape Russian persecution of Jewish people, Berlin sang on street corners as a child to earn money. He later worked as a singing waiter in New York City and began writing his own songs, eventually becoming known as Irving Berlin after signing his work as “I. Berlin” in 1907. Despite being entirely self-taught as a musician and developing a unique style by playing only on the black keys of the piano, Berlin’s song “Alexander’s Ragtime Band” became a huge hit in 1911, earning him the title “King of Tin Pan Alley.”
In the following decades, Berlin composed over 800 songs, many of which became classics like “Always,” “Cheek to Cheek,” and “Blue Skies.” He also wrote the scores for numerous musicals and successful films, including “Annie Get Your Gun” and “Top Hat.” Berlin’s patriotic standard “God Bless America” and the iconic tune “There’s No Business like Show Business” further solidified his legacy in American music. Additionally, his score for the film “Holiday Inn” introduced the timeless ballad “White Christmas,” one of the most popular songs ever recorded. Berlin celebrated his centennial birthday in 1988 with tributes worldwide, including an all-star tribute at Carnegie Hall.
Berlin’s most famous patriotic work, “God Bless America,” was written during World War I and first publicly sung by Kate Smith at an Armistice Day Celebration in 1938. His enduring legacy as a composer and musician continued to influence American music, with his compositions featured in numerous Broadway shows and motion pictures. Despite his humble beginnings as a child immigrant from Siberia, Berlin’s dedication to his craft and unique musical style propelled him to fame as one of the most celebrated composers in American history. On September 22, 1989, at the age of 101, Irving Berlin passed away in New York City, leaving behind a lasting impact on the world of music and entertainment.
