Yip Harburg

Yip Harburg, born Edgar Yipsel Harburg, was a towering figure in the world of musical theater, renowned for his lyrical genius and unwavering commitment to social justice. Hailing from the Lower East Side of Manhattan, Harburg's humble beginnings fueled his passion for championing the underdog and critiquing societal norms. His penchant for weaving social commentary into his lyrics earned him the title "Broadway's social conscience." Harburg's prolific career spanned over 600 songs, including timeless standards like "Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?", "April in Paris", and "It's Only a Paper Moon." His magnum opus, however, remains the lyrics for the classic film "The Wizard of Oz," with the iconic "Over the Rainbow" being his most enduring legacy. Harburg's work was not just about entertainment; it was a call to action, advocating for racial, sexual, and gender equality, and union politics. His big-hearted and clever lyrics, coupled with his uncompromising politics, make Yip Harburg an indispensable figure in the pantheon of twentieth-century lyricists.