Joseph McCarthy, born Thomas Joseph McCarthy on September 27, 1885, in Somerville, Massachusetts, was a prominent American lyricist known for his significant contributions to Tin Pan Alley and Broadway. He began his career as a singer in Boston cafes before transitioning into music publishing. McCarthy moved to New York City, where he joined Feist & Co, a music publishing company on Tin Pan Alley. He was a charter member of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) and served as its director from 1921 to 1929.

McCarthy was a prolific songwriter, collaborating with composers such as Harry Tierney, Fred Fisher, Harry Carroll, and Jimmy Monaco. His notable works include the songs "You Made Me Love You," "I'm Always Chasing Rainbows," and "Alice Blue Gown." His Broadway credits feature musicals like "Oh, Look!," "Irene," "The Broadway Whirl," and "Rio Rita." He also contributed to the Ziegfeld Follies of 1919, 1920, and 1924.

Throughout his career, McCarthy's songs were recorded by various artists, and he achieved considerable success with several chart-topping hits. He passed away on December 18, 1943, in New York City, leaving behind a legacy celebrated by his induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970. His son, Joseph McCarthy Jr., also followed in his footsteps as a lyricist.