George M. Cohan
Songwriter and Broadway performer
Born
July 3rd, 1878
146 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1942
82 years ago — 64 years old
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
An American songwriter, actor, singer, and dancer, recognized as one of the pioneers of musical theater in the United States. Cohan wrote the scores for several prominent Broadway shows in the early 20th century. Hit productions included 'Little Johnny Jones', 'George Washington, Jr.', and 'Yankee Doodle Dandy'. His patriotic songs, such as 'Over There' and 'You're a Grand Old Flag', became anthems during World War I. He was among the first composers to integrate song and dance into the narrative of musicals, shaping the development of the genre.
Wrote songs for 'Yankee Doodle Dandy'
Created the musical 'Little Johnny Jones'
Developed the concept of the American musical
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