Marty Bloom
Marty Bloom, born M.L. Blumenthal, was a notable figure in the music industry, recognized for his contributions as a songwriter and music publisher. His career in music publishing began before the 1920s, and in 1918, he co-founded the Melrose Brothers Music Company with Walter and Lester Melrose. Bloom's role in the company extended beyond publishing, as he was also involved in artist management and played a significant part in the careers of jazz legends Fats Waller and Jelly Roll Morton.
Bloom's management of Jelly Roll Morton included bringing him to the Decca/MGM/MCA conglomerate for historic recordings in 1927. Although Bloom eventually handed over the management of Fats Waller to Phil Ponce, his impact on Waller's career was notable. Despite the challenges of artist management, Bloom found greater satisfaction in songwriting. He collaborated frequently with Walter Melrose, producing memorable ballads like "Melancholy" and "Reverie."
One of Bloom's most famous songs is "Does the Spearmint Lose Its Flavor on the Bedpost Overnight?," co-written with Billy Rose and Ernest Brever. Known for his hands-on approach, Bloom was credited for his unique contributions to recordings, often providing sound effects with whistles and kazoos. His legacy in the music industry is marked by his dual talents in songwriting and his strategic insights in artist management.