Byron Sturges Gay (August 28, 1886 – December 22, 1945) was an American songwriter known for his contributions to early 20th-century music. Born in Illinois to Cassius Mason Gay and Julia Iona Fessenden Gay, Byron had a family that included two brothers and two sisters. He married Ethel May Stokes and had one daughter. Gay passed away at the age of 59 due to congestive heart failure in Tucson, Arizona.

Throughout his career, Byron Gay was celebrated for his songwriting, with one of his most famous works being "Four or Five Times," co-written with Marco H. Hellman. This song was recorded by numerous notable artists such as King Oliver, Sidney Bechet, Lionel Hampton, Bob Wills, Woody Herman, Benny Goodman, and Peggy Lee. Gay also collaborated with composer Richard A. Whiting, producing popular songs like "Horses" and "Fire," which were known for their dance and comedic appeal.

In addition to his songwriting, Gay contributed to stage productions, composing music for "The Uplifters' Minstrels," a 1916 stage farce by L. Frank Baum, as well as songs for "The Greenwich Village Follies" in 1919 and 1921. His selected list of songs includes titles such as "The Little Ford Rambled Right Along," "The Vamp," "Sand Dunes," and "Wide Open Spaces," showcasing his versatility and influence in the music industry during his time.