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Discover the remarkable journey of Irving Berlin, a Russian immigrant who overcame adversity to become a prolific songwriter in America, known for classics like "God Bless America." From humble beginnings in Belarus to penning 1500 songs, his impact on music is enduring and patriotic.
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Irving Berlin Israel Baline Born May 11, 1888 In Russia (Belarus) Last of 8 children His father was a Jewish Cantor (Synagogue singer) Cossacks burned his family home Family fled to New York City
The family was very poor. They lived in an apartment with no windows The father died. Irving sold newspapers. His brother sewed shirts. His sisters wrapped cigars. His mother was a midwife.
Irving ran away from home. He sang with his friends. Later, he became a singing waiter. He began to write songs.
In 1911, Irving Berlin wrote a world wide hit song. Alexander’s Ragtime Band
In 1918 he gave up his Russian citizenship and became an American citizen. He was drafted into the army. He wrote patriotic songs for a show. He wrote “God Bless America,” but it was not performed then.
Irving Berlin wrote 1500 songs 19 Broadway shows 18 Hollywood films
In 1938 Kate Smith sang a version of “God Bless America” . Berlin’s Manuscript
Royalties for “God Bless America” go to the Boy Scouts and the Girl Scouts.
