Role

:

Composer

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

October 7, 1901 in New York City, NY

Death

:

October 23, 1942 in Palm Springs, CA

Genre

:

Orchestral

 

 

Vocal

 

Ralph Rainger was an American composer of popular music and film scores. He was born on October 7, 1901, in New York City, to a family of musicians. His father, Meyer Rainger, was a violinist and conductor, and his mother, Bertha, was a pianist. Ralph showed an early interest in music and began playing the piano at a young age. Rainger studied music at the New York College of Music and the Juilliard School. He began his career as a pianist and arranger for various bands and orchestras, including Paul Whiteman's orchestra. In the 1920s, he started composing songs, and his first hit was "Moanin' Low," which was recorded by Libby Holman in 1929. Throughout the 1930s, Rainger became one of the most successful songwriters in Hollywood. He wrote songs for many popular films, including "She Loves Me Not," "The Big Broadcast of 1936," and "Thanks for the Memory." His collaboration with lyricist Leo Robin produced many hits, including "Blue Hawaii," "Love in Bloom," and "Please." Rainger's music was known for its catchy melodies and clever lyrics. He was also known for his ability to write songs that fit the mood and style of the films they were written for. His songs were often performed by some of the biggest stars of the time, including Bing Crosby, Fred Astaire, and Judy Garland. In addition to his work in Hollywood, Rainger also composed music for Broadway shows. His most successful Broadway show was "Too Many Girls," which opened in 1939 and featured the hit song "I Didn't Know What Time It Was." Despite his success, Rainger's life was cut short when he died in a plane crash on October 23, 1942, at the age of 41. He was on his way to a war bond rally in California when his plane crashed into a mountain near Palm Springs. Despite his short career, Rainger left behind a legacy of memorable songs that continue to be performed and recorded today. His music has been featured in numerous films and television shows, and his songs have been covered by countless artists over the years.

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