Harry Ruby, American composer and screenwriter (d. 1974)

Harry Rubenstein (January 27, 1895 – February 23, 1974), universally recognized by his professional name Harry Ruby, was an extraordinary American talent whose multifaceted career profoundly impacted the entertainment landscape of the 20th century. A true polymath, he excelled as an actor, a proficient pianist, a prolific composer, a celebrated songwriter, and an accomplished screenwriter. His exceptional contributions to music were formally acknowledged with his prestigious induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970. In his personal life, he was married to Eileen Percy, a notable silent film actress.

Harry Ruby's remarkable versatility allowed him to leave an indelible mark across various facets of the entertainment industry. While perhaps best known for his melodic compositions and witty lyrics, his significant work as a screenwriter, particularly for some of the most iconic comedies of his era, showcased his expansive creative range and adaptability.

The Prolific Songwriting Legacy of Harry Ruby

As a composer and songwriter, Harry Ruby crafted a timeless catalog of songs that became enduring standards, celebrated for their memorable melodies and often poignant or humorous lyrics. His most significant and enduring creative partnership was with lyricist Bert Kalmar. This legendary duo formed a cornerstone of Tin Pan Alley songwriting, penning hundreds of tunes that graced Broadway stages, Hollywood films, and radio airwaves for over three decades, from the 1920s through the 1950s. Their remarkably successful collaboration was so renowned that their lives and careers were chronicled in the 1950 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer musical film "Three Little Words," named after one of their most famous compositions. In this biographical film, Ruby himself was famously portrayed by the iconic Fred Astaire, a testament to his prominence.

Iconic Compositions and American Standards

• "Three Little Words" (1930): Co-written with Bert Kalmar, this song became an immediate classic upon its introduction in the musical film "Check and Double Check," starring the popular comedy duo Amos 'n' Andy. Its simple yet profound romantic sentiment has ensured its enduring appeal across generations.
• "Who's Sorry Now?" (1923): Another timeless hit, this song was a collaboration between Harry Ruby, Bert Kalmar, and Ted Snyder. It quickly became a staple in the repertoires of jazz and pop artists, cementing its status as a widely covered and beloved standard.
• "Nevertheless (I'm in Love with You)" (1931): Composed with Bert Kalmar, this song gained widespread popularity and has been featured in numerous films and recordings, underscoring its enduring charm and melodic strength.
• "A Kiss to Build a Dream On" (1935, gaining widespread fame in 1951): While famously associated with Louis Armstrong's iconic rendition, this cherished song was co-written by Ruby with Kalmar and Oscar Hammerstein II. It later earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song, highlighting its lasting quality.

Harry Ruby's Significant Contributions to Film and Stage

Beyond his prolific musical output, Harry Ruby was a vital contributor to the golden age of Hollywood as both a screenwriter and an occasional on-screen performer. His extensive collaboration with Bert Kalmar seamlessly extended into film, where their combined talents helped shape some of the most memorable musical comedies and comedic narratives of the era.

Screenwriting for the Legendary Marx Brothers

Perhaps one of Harry Ruby’s most celebrated contributions to cinema was his pivotal involvement in writing screenplays and composing songs for the unparalleled comedy team, the Marx Brothers. His work helped define their early cinematic masterpieces, blending their anarchic humor with memorable musical numbers. He co-wrote the screenplays for some of their most iconic early films:

• Animal Crackers (1930): Ruby not only contributed songs to this seminal Marx Brothers film but also played a key role in adapting the original Broadway musical for the screen, ensuring its transition to film was both successful and hilarious.
• Monkey Business (1931): He was an integral part of the writing team responsible for this riotous and often surreal comedy, further solidifying the Marx Brothers' unique brand of humor on film.
• Horse Feathers (1932): Ruby co-wrote both the screenplay and several unforgettable songs for this collegiate satire, including "Everyone Says I Love You," which became one of the Marx Brothers' signature tunes.
• Duck Soup (1933): Widely regarded by critics and fans alike as the Marx Brothers' undisputed masterpiece, Ruby co-wrote the screenplay for this brilliant satirical war comedy, firmly cementing his legacy in the annals of film history.

These films not only showcased the Marx Brothers' unparalleled comedic genius but also brilliantly integrated Ruby and Kalmar's musical numbers, making songs an indispensable part of the narrative and character development.

Acting Roles and Musical Appearances

While primarily serving as a creative force behind the scenes, Harry Ruby did make occasional on-screen appearances. These roles often capitalized on his musical talents, such as playing a pianist, or were small character parts. His most prominent on-screen representation came through Fred Astaire's portrayal in "Three Little Words" (1950), which offered a wider audience a captivating glimpse into his personality and vast contributions. Interestingly, Ruby himself made a cameo appearance in that very film as a golf pro, reflecting his lifelong passion for the sport.

A Distinguished Legacy: Induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame

Harry Ruby's profound and lasting impact on American music and the broader entertainment industry was formally recognized with his induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970. This prestigious honor is bestowed upon outstanding individuals whose careers demonstrate a consistent and significant contribution to the art of songwriting. His induction firmly placed him among the pantheon of America's greatest composers and lyricists, cementing his place in musical history alongside his long-time collaborator, Bert Kalmar, who was also posthumously inducted in the same year.

Personal Life and Enduring Influence

Harry Ruby was married to Eileen Percy (1891–1973), a notable American silent film actress. Percy enjoyed a productive career during the nascent years of Hollywood, appearing in over 60 films between 1917 and 1920. Her career flourished during a pivotal era of cinematic innovation, and her marriage to Ruby further connected him to the evolving landscape of the entertainment world. Ruby's enduring influence is not just evident in the vast body of work he created but also in how his songs continue to be performed, recorded, and cherished by new generations, underscoring his timeless appeal and masterful craftsmanship in both melody and lyric.

Frequently Asked Questions About Harry Ruby

When was Harry Ruby inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame?

Harry Ruby was inducted into the esteemed Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970, an honor that formally recognized his extraordinary and lasting contributions to American music as both a composer and a songwriter.

Who was Harry Ruby's most famous songwriting partner?

Harry Ruby's most famous and highly productive songwriting partnership was with lyricist Bert Kalmar. Their collaboration was legendary, resulting in numerous hit songs and extensive work across Broadway and Hollywood productions for over three decades.

Did Harry Ruby contribute to films featuring the Marx Brothers?

Yes, Harry Ruby had a significant and instrumental creative relationship with the Marx Brothers. He co-wrote screenplays and composed memorable songs for some of their most iconic films, including Animal Crackers, Horse Feathers, and the widely acclaimed Duck Soup.

What are some of Harry Ruby's most famous songs?

Some of Harry Ruby's most famous and enduring compositions include "Three Little Words," "Who's Sorry Now?", "Nevertheless (I'm in Love with You)," and "A Kiss to Build a Dream On." Many of these beloved songs were successful collaborations with Bert Kalmar.

Was Harry Ruby's life portrayed in a movie?

Yes, Harry Ruby's life and career were famously depicted in the 1950 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer musical film "Three Little Words." He was portrayed by the legendary dancer and actor Fred Astaire. Interestingly, Ruby himself also made a cameo appearance in the film as a golf professional.