Al Dubin
Al Dubin, born Alexander Dubin on June 10, 1891, in Zürich, Switzerland, was a prolific American lyricist best known for his collaborations with composer Harry Warren. Dubin's family, originally from Russia, immigrated to the United States when he was two, settling in Philadelphia. Despite his parents' aspirations for him to pursue a medical career, Dubin was drawn to music and Broadway from a young age, often skipping school to immerse himself in the vibrant New York City music scene.
Dubin's early career saw him working as a staff writer for music publishing companies and achieving his first hit in 1916 with "T'Was Only an Irishman's Dream," co-written with Rennie Carmack. After serving in World War I, Dubin returned to songwriting and achieved moderate success. He became one of the first songwriters for talking pictures in the late 1920s, notably collaborating with Joseph Burke on hits like "Tiptoe Through the Tulips."
The 1930s marked the peak of Dubin's career, largely due to his partnership with Harry Warren. Together, they created numerous hits, including "We're in the Money," "42nd Street," "Shuffle Off to Buffalo," and the Academy Award-winning "Lullaby of Broadway" in 1935. Dubin's work was integral to the success of many Warner Bros. films during this era.
Despite his professional success, Dubin struggled with personal issues, including alcohol and drug addiction, which affected his later life and career. He faced difficulties finding work in the 1940s and lived in declining health until his death on February 11, 1945, in New York City from barbiturate poisoning and pneumonia. Dubin was interred in Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City, California. His legacy endures through his timeless contributions to American music and film.
App
