Edwin Frank Duchin, known as Eddy Duchin, was born on April 1, 1909, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, to Bessarabian Jewish immigrants Tillie and Frank Duchin. Initially pursuing a career in pharmacy, Duchin graduated from Beverly High School and attended the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy. However, his passion for music led him to abandon pharmacy and join Leo Reisman's orchestra at the Central Park Casino in New York. By 1931, Duchin had taken over as the orchestra's leader, gaining popularity through radio broadcasts and record sales.

Duchin's musical style, characterized as "sweet" music, was rooted in classical influences and paved the way for other piano-playing bandleaders. Despite lacking formal musical training, Duchin's charismatic stage presence and unique cross-handed piano technique captivated audiences. He often collaborated with soft-voiced singers to enhance his romantic songs.

During World War II, Duchin served in the U.S. Navy, attaining the rank of lieutenant commander and receiving several military awards. After the war, he continued to perform at prestigious venues and recorded numerous hits, including "So You're the One."

Duchin married Marjorie Oelrichs in 1935, with whom he had a son, Peter Duchin, who later became a renowned pianist and bandleader. After Marjorie's death in 1937, Duchin married Maria Theresa Paske-Smith in 1947. Tragically, Duchin died of leukemia on February 9, 1951, in New York City. His life was later immortalized in the film "The Eddy Duchin Story," starring Tyrone Power.