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Ballard MacDonald
Ballard MacDonald (October 15, 1882 – November 17, 1935) was a prominent American lyricist associated with the Tin Pan Alley era. Born in Portland, Oregon, he pursued higher education at Princeton University and furthered his studies at the Sorbonne in Paris. MacDonald began his career writing lyrics for vaudeville acts, which eventually led him to Broadway. He was a charter member of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) in 1914.

MacDonald is best known for his contributions to popular songs such as "Play That Barber-Shop Chord" (1910), "On the Mississippi" (1912), "The Trail of the Lonesome Pine" (1912), and "(Back Home Again in) Indiana" (1917). His work with composer James F. Hanley on "Indiana" became one of his most enduring hits. He also co-wrote "Beautiful Ohio" (1918), which was later adopted as Ohio's official state song.

In the 1920s, MacDonald shifted his focus to Broadway revues, collaborating with notable composers such as George Gershwin and Walter Donaldson. He co-wrote the lyrics to Gershwin's "Somebody Loves Me" for the musical George White's Scandals of 1924. His Broadway contributions included shows like Love Birds (1921) and Sweetheart Time (1926).

MacDonald's work extended to Hollywood, where he contributed lyrics to several films. Despite his success, he faced challenges, including a legal battle over the song "Play That Barber-Shop Chord," which he won, resulting in a significant financial settlement.

Ballard MacDonald passed away in Forest Hills, New York, leaving behind a legacy of influential songs that continue to be celebrated.
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