Max Charles Freedman, born on January 8, 1893, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was a prominent American songwriter and lyricist. Known professionally as Max C. Freedman, and sometimes as Ray Freedman, he made significant contributions to the music industry, particularly in the Tin Pan Alley era. Freedman began his career as a radio announcer, writer, and entertainer before joining a music publishing company. His songwriting career dates back to at least 1919, and he became a member of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) in 1942.

Freedman achieved early success with the song "Sioux City Sue," co-written with Dick Thomas, which became a hit in 1945 and was recorded by artists such as Gene Autry and Bing Crosby. His other notable songs include "Dreamy Old New England Moon," "Heartbreaker" (1947), and "Tea Leaves" (1948), often collaborating with Morty Berk and Frank Capano.

Freedman's most enduring legacy is his co-authorship of the iconic rock and roll song "Rock Around the Clock," alongside James E. Myers, who used the pseudonym Jimmy DeKnight. Although the song was initially recorded by Sonny Dae & His Knights in 1954, it gained monumental success when Bill Haley & His Comets recorded it later that year. The song became a number one hit in 1955 and is widely regarded as a pivotal moment in the history of rock and roll.

Max C. Freedman passed away on October 8, 1962, in Philadelphia, leaving behind a lasting impact on the music world through his contributions to popular music and the rock and roll genre.