E. Ray Goetz, born Edward Ray Goetz on June 12, 1886, in Buffalo, New York, was a prominent American composer, lyricist, playwright, theatre director, and producer. He was a significant figure in the Tin Pan Alley music scene and was involved in the creation of over 500 songs, many of which were written for the New York stage. His works were recorded by notable artists such as Judy Garland, Al Jolson, and Blossom Seeley.

Goetz's career in Broadway musicals spanned from 1906 to 1930, during which he collaborated with renowned artists like George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Sigmund Romberg, and A. Baldwin Sloane. He contributed to several musical revues, including the first Ziegfeld Follies in 1907, and was involved in musicals such as The Orchid, The Gay White Way, and George White's Scandals.

In addition to his songwriting, Goetz was a prolific producer, starting with the musical Hitchy-Koo in 1917. He produced and contributed to musicals like As You Were, Little Miss Bluebeard, and Cole Porter's Paris. He also directed and created the story for Porter's The New Yorkers in 1930. Goetz authored and produced the play The Lady of the Orchids in 1928 and was involved in the production of Fifty Million Frenchmen, which was later adapted into a film.

Goetz's work extended to films, with his songs featured in movies such as For Me and My Gal and The Greatest Show On Earth. In his later years, he worked as a lyricist for the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus.

E. Ray Goetz passed away on his 68th birthday, June 12, 1954, leaving behind a legacy of musical and theatrical contributions that significantly influenced American entertainment.