Harold Arlen
Composer
About Harold Arlen
Harold Arlen: The Buffalo-Born Musical Genius Behind Timeless Classics
Born on February 15, 1905, in Buffalo, NY, Harold Arlen was destined to become one of the most influential composers of American popular music. Originally named Hyman Arluck, Arlen grew up as the son of a Jewish cantor and a piano teacher, immersing himself in music from a young age. His career, marked by over 500 compositions, not only shaped the soundtrack of Hollywood’s golden age but also left a lasting mark on Broadway and the Great American Songbook.
From Buffalo Roots to Big Dreams
Arlen’s upbringing in Buffalo provided the foundation for his creative genius. Surrounded by music at home and exposed to the vibrant culture of the city, he developed an early love for melody and rhythm. By his teens, he had formed his first band, “Hyman Arluck’s Snappy Trio,” and began arranging and performing professionally. These early experiences sparked a passion that would take him far beyond his hometown.
Against the wishes of his parents, Arlen left Buffalo as a young man to pursue his musical dreams. He moved to New York City, where he joined “The Buffalodians” as a pianist and began composing. He officially changed his name to Harold Arlen in 1928, setting the stage for his rise to fame.
A Master Composer
Harold Arlen’s career took off with the 1929 hit song “Get Happy”—a collaboration with lyricist Ted Koehler that marked the beginning of his prominence. Together, Arlen and Koehler created a string of iconic songs featured in Broadway musicals and at Harlem’s legendary Cotton Club. Hits like “Stormy Weather” and “I’ve Got the World on a String” cemented Arlen’s status as a composer who could blend jazz, blues, and pop with unparalleled finesse.
His ability to craft emotionally resonant melodies garnered him a reputation as one of the era’s foremost musical innovators. Arlen went on to collaborate with some of the greatest lyricists of the time, including Johnny Mercer and E.Y. “Yip” Harburg.
The Wizard of Oz and the Power of a Rainbow
Arlen’s most universally celebrated achievement came in 1939 when he and Yip Harburg were hired to write the score for The Wizard of Oz. For this project, the duo created one of the most iconic songs in film history, “Over the Rainbow”. Introduced by Judy Garland as Dorothy, the song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and has since been ranked as one of the greatest songs of the 20th century. Its poignant melody and hopeful lyrics struck a chord with audiences, becoming a defining moment in American culture.
The song’s success highlighted Arlen’s gift for creating melodies that transcend time, offering both comfort and inspiration. It reflected his deep understanding of storytelling through music, a talent that made him a sought-after composer in both film and theater.
More Collaborations and Timeless Music
Beyond The Wizard of Oz, Arlen continued to build an extraordinary body of work. His partnership with Johnny Mercer produced chart-topping hits like “That Old Black Magic”, “One for My Baby (and One More for the Road)”, and “Come Rain or Come Shine”. These songs showcased Arlen’s unique ability to capture complex emotions, from heartache to joy, through melody and rhythm.
On Broadway, Arlen composed for hit musicals like Bloomer Girl, St. Louis Woman, and House of Flowers. His work pushed boundaries and introduced audiences to new styles and sounds, rooted in his deep appreciation for blues and jazz.
A Lasting Legacy
Although Harold Arlen passed away in 1986, his music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. His contributions to the Great American Songbook have defined the era of classic American music, and his compositions remain staples in jazz and cabaret performances today.
Arlen’s songs have been performed and recorded by countless artists, from Judy Garland to Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand. “Over the Rainbow” alone has inspired countless renditions, each paying homage to the Buffalo-born composer who gave the world so many beautiful songs.
Celebrating Arlen in Buffalo
Buffalo takes pride in its native son, Harold Arlen, who went on to achieve global fame while never forgetting his roots. Events honoring his legacy, such as performances of his work at venues like Kleinhans Music Hall, serve as a tribute to his enduring contributions to American music.
A Timeless Voice in Music
Harold Arlen’s life and career exemplify the power of creativity and perseverance. From his early days in Buffalo to his collaborations with the greatest lyricists of his time, his music captured the spirit of his era while continuing to inspire generations. His compositions remind us of the timeless beauty of a well-crafted melody, and his legacy stands as a testament to the enduring magic of American music.
For music fans and historians alike, Harold Arlen remains an icon—a Buffalo-born visionary whose songs will forever sparkle in the annals of musical history.