Mae West: Von Tilzer

His life ended In January so it is time to reflect on American songwriter Harry Von Tilzer [8 July 1872 — 10 January 1946] who helped launch MAE WEST's career. One of his popular novelty songs — — "Mariutch Make-a the Hootch a-ma-Cooch in Coney Island" — — was performed by "Baby Mae" when her parents entered their daughter in amateur contests. Her performance of this Italian dialect number often won a prize.
• • Von Tilzer was born in Detroit under the name Harry Gummbinsky (which he shortened to Harry Gumm before later taking the "Von Tilzer" monicker under which he became famous). At age 14 he joined a traveling circus, where he took his new name. He began playing piano and calliope while creating new tunes and incidental music for shows. After writing many songs, performed by well-known vocalists, Harry Von Tilzer achieved wealth and fame.
• • Harry's niece Frances Gumm went on to fame as the renamed Judy Garland.
• • Come up and see Mae every day online: http://MaeWest.blogspot.com/
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Mae West
• • Photo: Mae West • • song sheet • •
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Mae West.