In brief
Gustav Gerson Kahn (November 6, 1886 – October 8, 1941) was a German-born American lyricist renowned for his contributions to Tin Pan Alley, Broadway, and Hollywood musicals, penning lyrics for over 800 popular songs that became enduring standards in jazz and popular music.
Born in Koblenz, Germany, Kahn immigrated to the United States with his family in 1891 at the age of five, settling in Chicago where he grew up in a Jewish household. After working as a clerk following his education, he began his songwriting career in the 1910s, initially contributing lyrics to vaudeville acts before establishing himself as a prolific figure in the music industry during the 1920s.
He was the son of Jewish parents Isaac Kahn, a cattle dealer and merchant, and Theresa Kahn (née Mayer).
Photographs
Hero photograph: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons
