Dave Dreyer was born on September 22, 1894, in Brooklyn, New York, and passed away on March 1, 1967, in New York City. He was a prominent American composer and pianist known for his work in vaudeville and film music. Dreyer began his career as a pianist, collaborating with vaudeville stars such as Al Jolson, Sophie Tucker, Belle Baker, and Frank Fay. In 1923, he joined the Irving Berlin Music Company as a staff pianist, where he contributed to numerous film scores and eventually became the head of the music department at RKO Radio Pictures.

Dreyer was a prolific songwriter, often collaborating with lyricists like Billy Rose, Ballard Macdonald, and Herman Ruby. Among his notable compositions are "Me and My Shadow," "There's a Rainbow 'Round My Shoulder," "Back in Your Own Backyard," "Cecilia," "Four Walls," and "Golden Gate." He also founded his own music publishing firm in 1947 after leaving the Irving Berlin Music Company.

In recognition of his contributions to music, Dave Dreyer was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970. His legacy includes a rich catalog of songs that have been cherished by generations.