Willy Rosen, born Willy Julius Rosenbaum on July 18, 1894, in Magdeburg, Germany, was a prominent German-Jewish composer, songwriter, and cabaret performer. He began his career in the textile industry but shifted to music after being wounded during World War I, where he entertained troops with his piano performances. Rosen became a celebrated figure in the vibrant cabaret scene of Weimar Berlin, known for his catchy tunes and engaging performances. His signature phrase when introducing his songs was "Der Text und die Musik ist von mir!" ("The text and the music are by me!").

Rosen's career flourished as he founded the Rosen Kapelle, collaborated with notable artists, and contributed to film and operetta scores. However, the rise of the Nazi regime forced him to flee Germany. He continued his work in the Netherlands, establishing the successful 'Theatre of Celebrities' cabaret. Despite his efforts to avoid political themes, Rosen was eventually arrested in 1943 and sent to the Westerbork transit camp, where he continued to produce cabaret performances.

In September 1944, Rosen was deported to Theresienstadt and subsequently to Auschwitz, where he was murdered on October 1, 1944. His legacy endures through his contributions to music and cabaret, and he is remembered as a significant cultural figure who resisted Nazi persecution through his art.