Dave Brubeck is 84 today.
And it was on this date in 1896 that Ira Gershwin was born. The Writer’s Almanac says:
[B]orn Israel Gershvin on the East Side of New York City. He’s considered one of the great lyricists of the twentieth century, best known for writing the lyrics to songs like “I’ve Got Rhythm” (1930) and “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off” (1937). But he always felt overshadowed by the talent of his younger brother, the composer George Gershwin. The two brothers worked together on many songs, and Ira once heard a radio announcer say, “Here is a new song by George Gershwin and his lovely wife Ira.”
Ira Gershwin won the Pulitzer Prize for his lyrics for Of Thee I Sing (1932). Among Ira Gershwin lyrics — A Foggy Day, Fascinating Rhythm, Funny Face, I Got Rhythm, The Man I Love, Oh, Lady Be Good, Summertime.
The Official George & Ira Gershwin Web site is nicely done and includes a jukebox.