Clarence Muse was a pioneering American actor, screenwriter, director, singer, and composer, born on October 14, 1889, in Baltimore, Maryland. He was a trailblazer in the film industry, becoming the first African American to star in a major studio film with his role in 1929's "Hearts in Dixie." Over a career spanning five decades, Muse appeared in more than 150 films and was inducted into the Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame in 1973.

Muse's early life included a brief stint at Dickinson School of Law, which he left due to the racial barriers of the time. He later received an honorary doctorate from the same institution in 1978. During the Harlem Renaissance, Muse was active in New York's theater scene, performing with the Lincoln Players and the Lafayette Players, where he helped elevate the status of black actors.

In addition to his acting career, Muse was a talented composer and playwright. He co-wrote the song "When It's Sleepy Time Down South," which became a signature piece for Louis Armstrong. Muse also made history as the first African-American Broadway director with "Run Little Chillun" in 1943.

Muse's film career included notable roles in "The Broken Earth" (1936) and "Spirit of Youth" (1938), where he co-starred with boxer Joe Louis. He also contributed to the script for "Way Down South" (1939) alongside Langston Hughes. His television work included a regular role on the TV version of "Casablanca" and appearances in Disney's "The Swamp Fox."

Clarence Muse passed away on October 13, 1979, in Perris, California, leaving behind a legacy as a versatile and groundbreaking artist in American entertainment.