Hubbry Logo
Jule StyneJule StyneMain
Open search
Jule Styne
Community hub
Jule Styne
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Jule Styne
Jule Styne
Jule Styne
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Key Information

Jule Styne (/ˈdʒuːli/ JOO-lee;[1] born Julius Kerwin Stein; December 31, 1905 – September 20, 1994)[2] was an English-American songwriter and composer widely known for a series of Broadway musicals, including several famous frequently-revived shows that also became successful films: Gypsy, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, and Funny Girl.

Early life

[edit]

Styne was born to a Jewish family[3] in London, England.[2] His parents, Anna Kertman and Isadore Stein, were emigrants from Ukraine (then part of the Russian Empire) and ran a small grocery.[4] Even before his family left Britain, he did impressions on the stage of well-known singers, including Harry Lauder, who saw him perform and advised him to take up the piano.[5] At the age of eight, he moved with his family to Chicago, where he began taking piano lessons. He proved to be a prodigy and performed with the Chicago,[6] St. Louis, and Detroit symphonies before he was 10 years old.

Career

[edit]

Before Styne attended Chicago Musical College, he had already attracted the attention of another teenager, Mike Todd, later a successful film producer, who commissioned him to write a song for a musical act that he was creating. It was the first of over 1,500 published songs Styne composed in his career. His first hit, "Sunday", was written in 1926.[6]

In 1929, Styne was playing with the Ben Pollack band.[7]

Styne was a vocal coach for 20th Century Fox,[6] until Darryl F. Zanuck fired him because vocal coaching was "a luxury, and we're cutting out those luxuries." Zanuck told him he should write songs because "that's forever". Styne established his own dance band, which got him noticed in Hollywood, where he was championed by Frank Sinatra and began a collaboration with lyricist Sammy Cahn.[6] He and Cahn wrote many songs for the movies, including "It's Been a Long, Long Time" (No. 1 for three weeks for Harry James and His Orchestra in 1945), "Five Minutes More", and the Oscar-winning title song for Three Coins in the Fountain (1954).[6] Ten of his songs were Oscar-nominated, many of them written with Cahn, including "I've Heard That Song Before" (No. 1 for 13 weeks for Harry James and His Orchestra in 1943), "I'll Walk Alone", "It's Magic" (a No. 2 hit for Doris Day in 1948), and "I Fall In Love Too Easily". He collaborated with Leo Robin on the score for the 1955 musical film My Sister Eileen.[6]

In 1947, Styne wrote his first score for a Broadway musical, High Button Shoes, with Cahn, and over the next several decades wrote the scores for many Broadway shows, most notably Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Peter Pan (additional music), Bells Are Ringing, Gypsy, Do Re Mi, Funny Girl, Lorelei, Sugar (with a story based on the movie Some Like It Hot, but all new music), and the Tony-winning Hallelujah, Baby!.[6]

Styne wrote original music for the short-lived themed amusement park Freedomland U.S.A. that opened on June 19, 1960.

His collaborators included Sammy Cahn, Leo Robin, Betty Comden and Adolph Green, Stephen Sondheim, Bob Hilliard, and Bob Merrill.[6]

He wrote career-altering Broadway scores for a wide variety of major stars, including Phil Silvers, Carol Channing, Mary Martin, Judy Holliday, Ethel Merman, and an up-and-coming Barbra Streisand.

He was the subject of This Is Your Life for British television in 1978 when he was surprised by Eamonn Andrews in New York's Times Square.

Personal life and death

[edit]

Styne married Englishwoman Margaret Brown (born in Torquay) and they remained married until his death. Styne died of heart failure in New York City at the age of 88.[8] His archive – including original hand-written compositions, letters, and production materials – is housed at the Harry Ransom Center.[9]

Margaret Styne oversaw Styne's estate until she died on February 20, 2022.[10]

Awards

[edit]

Styne was elected to the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1972[11] and the American Theatre Hall of Fame in 1981,[12] and he was a recipient of a Drama Desk Special Award and the Kennedy Center Honors in 1990. Additionally, Styne won the 1955 Oscar for Best Music, Original Song for "Three Coins in the Fountain", and "Hallelujah, Baby!" won the 1968 Tony Award for Best Original Score.[6]

Songs

[edit]

A selection of the many songs that Styne wrote:

Credits

[edit]

References

[edit]

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Jule Styne

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Jule Styne (December 31, 1905 – September 20, 1994) was an and composer renowned for his prolific output in Broadway musicals and Hollywood films, shaping much of mid-20th-century . Born Julius Stein in London's East End to Ukrainian Jewish immigrant parents, he moved to with his family in 1912 and quickly emerged as a , studying at the Chicago College of Music by age 10 and developing a passion for theater from an early age. Over a career spanning nearly 75 years, Styne composed more than 2,000 songs—publishing about 1,500 of them—with roughly 200 becoming enduring hits or standards, often through collaborations with lyricists such as , , , and . Styne's Broadway triumphs include the long-running High Button Shoes (1947, 727 performances), Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1949, featuring the iconic "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend"), Bells Are Ringing (1956, with hits like "Just in Time" and "The Party's Over"), Gypsy (1959), Peter Pan (1954), and Funny Girl (1964), many of which have been frequently revived and adapted into films. In Hollywood, he worked as a vocal coach and arranger for stars like Shirley Temple before composing scores for films including Anchors Aweigh (1945) and earning an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Three Coins in the Fountain" (1954 film, awarded 1955). His honors encompass multiple Tony Awards (including for Hallelujah, Baby! in 1968), an Emmy, two Grammy Awards, the Donaldson Award, the Drama Critics Circle Award, induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame (1972) and Theater Hall of Fame, the Kennedy Center Honors, the Johnny Mercer Award (1993), and the Songwriters Hall of Fame Board of Directors Award (1986). Styne died of heart failure in New York City at age 88, leaving a legacy of tuneful, character-driven songs that captured the spirit of American optimism and showmanship.

Early Life

Childhood and Family Background

Jule Styne was born Julius Kerwin Stein on December 31, 1905, in in London's East End, to Jewish parents Isadore Stein and Anna Kertman Stein, who had emigrated from . The family, of modest means, operated a small butter-and-egg store, reflecting their working-class socioeconomic background amid the immigrant Jewish community in the city's slums. In 1912, when Styne was seven years old, the family immigrated to the , settling in . This move placed them in a vibrant immigrant neighborhood, continuing their life of economic simplicity while immersing young Julius in the cultural traditions of their Ukrainian Jewish heritage. The Steins' Jewish roots provided an early environment rich in communal and familial traditions, including exposure to chants and the lively sounds of , which subtly influenced Styne's developing sense of before his formal training began. This cultural backdrop, combined with the family's emphasis on perseverance amid hardship, shaped the foundational years of his childhood in .

Musical Beginnings and Education

Born in to Ukrainian Jewish immigrants, Jule Styne immigrated with his family to in 1912, where he quickly demonstrated extraordinary musical talent as a prodigy. By age eight, he was performing as a soloist with the , and before age ten, he had appeared with the Chicago, , and symphonies, showcasing his classical skills in major orchestral settings. These early accomplishments established him as a , though a teacher later advised that his small hands would limit a sustained career as a concert , redirecting his focus toward . Styne enrolled in the Chicago Musical College shortly after arriving in the city, immersing himself in rigorous studies of , , and composition from around age eight. His classical training emphasized technical precision and repertoire from European masters, laying a foundation that influenced his later melodic style despite his shift to and popular forms. He completed his formal education there by age thirteen, having already won a medal in a Chicago Symphony youth competition before turning ten. In his early teens, Styne began taking on practical roles in Chicago's vibrant entertainment scene, accompanying acts and performing in jazz bands during the , often alongside future luminaries like and . He also worked as a at venues like the Metropole Hotel, providing accompaniment for prominent singers such as Helen Morgan, , , and , which honed his improvisational skills and exposure to popular performance demands. During this period, he attempted his first original compositions, drawing on his classical background to craft melodies; his initial published song, "Sunday," emerged in 1926 at age twenty, marking the start of his songwriting career.

Professional Career

Early Songwriting and Vaudeville

In the mid-1920s, following his early musical experiences in jazz bands, Styne relocated to to seek opportunities in the circuit, where he served as a and accompanist for performers including Ben Bernie. This period marked his immersion in the lively entertainment scene of the era, honing his skills in live performance and arrangement amid the burlesque houses and theaters of the city. Styne's breakthrough as a songwriter came in 1926 with his first major hit, "," a lively tune that captured the optimism of the and was quickly popularized by performers like . Co-written with , Chester Conn, and Bennie Krueger, the song showcased Styne's emerging talent for crafting infectious melodies suitable for both stage and recording. During this time, he also played in ensembles such as Ben Pollack's band, alongside future stars like and , which exposed him to the burgeoning sound. By , Styne expanded into and early film contributions, arranging and interpolating songs for on-air performances and motion pictures as he transitioned toward Hollywood. His work during this decade emphasized pop standards tailored for swing orchestras, including those led by , reflecting the era's shift toward dissemination of music. Over his lifetime, Styne composed more than 2,000 songs, publishing about 1,500 of them, with these early efforts laying the foundation for his enduring legacy in .

Broadway Breakthroughs

Jule Styne achieved his first major Broadway success as a with High Button Shoes in 1947, marking his debut in scoring a full musical production. The show, with lyrics by and a book by Stephen Longstreet, ran for 727 performances at the New Century Theatre, blending vaudeville-inspired comedy with energetic dance numbers choreographed by . Styne's upbeat score, featuring hits like "I Still Get Jealous," captured the post-World War II optimism and propelled him into the spotlight as a versatile tunesmith capable of driving narrative through memorable melodies. Building on this momentum, Styne's collaboration with lyricist produced the iconic Gentlemen Prefer Blondes in 1949, which starred in her breakthrough role as the gold-digging Lorelei Lee. The musical enjoyed a robust run of 740 performances at the Ziegfeld Theatre, its witty score elevating Anita Loos's novel into a satirical celebration of excess. Standout numbers such as "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend" became instant standards, showcasing Styne's flair for glamorous, character-driven songs that defined the era's sophisticated musical comedy. In 1954, Styne contributed additional music and collaborated on lyrics with and for the Broadway production of Peter Pan, starring as the title character. The show, with primary music by Mark Charlap, ran for 149 performances at the Cort Theatre and featured Styne's memorable songs like "Never Never Land," enhancing the whimsical adaptation of J.M. Barrie's classic tale. In the mid-1950s, Styne partnered with and for Bells Are Ringing (1956), a that highlighted Judy Holliday's Tony-winning performance as an overly involved telephone operator. The production amassed 924 performances across the Shubert and Alvin Theatres, with Styne's score— including "Just in Time" and "The Party's Over"—earning praise for its blend of heartfelt ballads and lively ensembles that mirrored the show's vibrancy. This success solidified Styne's reputation for crafting scores that amplified star vehicles while advancing plot through emotional depth. Styne's late-1950s triumph came with Gypsy (1959), where his music paired with Sondheim's lyrics to create a semi-autobiographical tale of showbiz ambition, led by Ethel Merman's powerhouse portrayal of Mama Rose. The show ran for 702 performances at the Broadway and Imperial Theatres, its dramatic intensity amplified by anthems like "," which captured the relentless drive of life. Culminating his breakthrough era, Styne composed Funny Girl in 1964, launching Barbra Streisand's stardom as in a record-breaking run of 1,348 performances at the Winter Garden and Majestic Theatres. Featuring poignant hits such as "," the score's emotional range and showstopping flair cemented Styne as one of Broadway's premier composers of the mid-20th century.

Hollywood Contributions

In 1937, Jule Styne relocated to Hollywood, where he secured contracts with major studios such as Paramount and 20th Century-Fox, transitioning from his earlier songwriting efforts to composing for film musicals. His work during this period often involved crafting romantic ballads that captured wartime sentiments, including the hit "I'll Walk Alone," written with lyricist Sammy Cahn for the 1944 all-star revue film Follow the Boys and performed by Dinah Shore. The song, nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song, became a chart-topping single and emblemized themes of longing and resilience. Styne's early Hollywood output also featured collaborations with emerging stars like Frank Sinatra, who popularized Styne's melodies such as "I Fall in Love Too Easily" from the 1945 musical Anchors Aweigh. By the late 1940s, Styne's partnership with Cahn deepened through a deal with Warner Bros., leading to standout contributions in films starring . Their song "It's Magic," composed for Day's screen debut in the 1948 romantic comedy , showcased her vocal range and earned another Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. The tune's whimsical orchestration and lyrics about enchantment helped propel the film and solidified Day's status as a leading musical performer. Styne's film scores during this era blended Broadway flair with cinematic pacing, occasionally adapting elements from his stage successes to enhance narrative flow. Styne reached a career pinnacle in Hollywood with the 1954 20th Century-Fox production Three Coins in the Fountain, where he and Cahn penned the title song evoking romance in . Performed by in the soundtrack, the ballad won the Academy Award for Best Original Song at the 1955 Oscars, marking Styne's only competitive win in the category amid several nominations. This success underscored his versatility in tailoring songs to visual storytelling, with Sinatra's interpretation boosting its popularity across radio and records.

Later Career Milestones

In the late 1960s, Styne achieved one of his final major Broadway successes with Hallelujah, Baby!, a musical that opened on April 26, 1967, at the Martin Beck Theatre, featuring music by Styne, lyrics by and , and a book by . Starring in the lead role of Georgina, the production explored themes of racial prejudice and ambition across four decades, earning the in 1968 as well as the award for Best Composer and . Uggams also received the Tony for in a Musical for her performance. Styne returned to Broadway in 1972 with Sugar, a musical adaptation of the film Some Like It Hot, which premiered on April 9 at the Majestic Theatre, with music by Styne, lyrics by , and book by Peter Stone. The show followed three musicians on the run, disguising themselves as women in an all-female band, and ran for 452 performances, marking a modest success amid mixed reviews for its comedic elements and score. In 1974, Styne contributed to Lorelei, a revised version of his earlier hit Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, which opened on at the Palace Theatre, starring as Lee. Retaining Styne's original music with new lyrics by Comden and Green, alongside additional material by Kenny Solms and , the production ran for 320 performances and revitalized the classic story of a gold-digging showgirl. Following , Styne largely retired from active Broadway composition in the late 1970s and 1980s after more than 50 years in the industry, though he continued to benefit from royalties generated by revivals of his enduring works such as Gypsy and Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.

Collaborations and Musical Style

Key Lyricist Partnerships

Jule Styne's career was defined by his ability to form productive partnerships with a diverse array of lyricists, collaborating with more than 20 over five decades, which allowed him to adapt his melodic style to various lyrical voices and theatrical demands. This versatility enabled Styne to transition seamlessly between Hollywood film scores and Broadway musicals, tailoring his compositions to enhance the narrative and emotional depth provided by his partners. One of Styne's most enduring collaborations was with during the and , a period that produced numerous wartime and romantic hits, including "It's Been a Long, Long Time." Their partnership, which began in 1942 at Republic Studios and yielded 15 number-one songs, shaped Styne's early Hollywood success by blending his robust melodies with Cahn's catchy, accessible titles and rhythmic flair, though it ended in 1949 due to creative differences before a brief reunion in 1970. Styne's work with the writing duo Betty Comden and Adolph Green represented his strongest and most prolific Broadway partnership, spanning eight shows from 1951 onward and infusing his music with their signature witty, character-driven lyrics. This collaboration, which included projects like Bells Are Ringing, allowed Styne to explore sophisticated ensemble numbers and integrated storytelling, significantly elevating his standing in musical theater during the and . Their dynamic emphasized Styne's adaptability, as he composed to complement the duo's urbane humor and social commentary. In his earlier career, Styne paired effectively with for works such as Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, where Robin's elegant, sophisticated lyrics drew out Styne's playful yet polished scores, helping establish his Broadway foothold in the late . Later, in the and , he ventured into more dramatic territory with on Gypsy, adapting his melodies to Sondheim's incisive, character-specific words to capture intense emotional arcs. Similarly, his partnership with on Funny Girl highlighted Styne's range, merging his sweeping ballads with Merrill's heartfelt, show-stopping lyrics to suit star-driven vehicles. These later alliances underscored Styne's chameleon-like ability to align his compositional strengths with evolving lyrical trends, from charm to psychological depth.

Influences and Compositional Approach

Jule Styne's compositional influences were rooted in his early classical training and exposure to diverse American musical traditions. As a , he performed with the at age eight, receiving formal instruction that emphasized technical proficiency on the . This foundation blended with the vibrant sounds of , where Styne immersed himself after moving to New York, absorbing the era's pop songwriting conventions of memorable melodies and rhythmic vitality. Additionally, his Jewish immigrant heritage connected him to the theater traditions of Eastern European performers, which infused his work with emotional expressiveness and theatrical flair, as explored in the broader context of Jewish contributions to American musicals. These elements shaped his creation of upbeat, melodic pop standards that bridged classical precision with popular appeal. Styne's signature style featured catchy hooks, romantic ballads, and subtle integration of jazz elements, making his scores instantly recognizable and enduringly popular. His melodies often employed and rhythmic flow to drive narrative momentum in Broadway productions, while lush romantic ballads like those in his work evoked and intimacy. Jazz influences emerged from his collaborations with bandleaders such as and during the 1930s, lending a swinging, improvisational energy to numbers that balanced accessibility with sophistication. This approach prioritized emotional resonance over complexity, ensuring songs remained vocal-centric and adaptable across genres. In orchestration, Styne favored simplicity to highlight performers' voices, crafting buoyant, infectious arrangements that supported rather than overshadowed singers. He tailored scores for powerhouse vocalists like in Gypsy, where robust, declarative lines amplified her belting style, and in Funny Girl, emphasizing intimate, soaring ballads that showcased her interpretive depth. This vocalist-focused technique stemmed from his experience as a in Hollywood films, where he arranged for stars like . Over his career, Styne's approach evolved from the straightforward, hook-driven simplicity of and early tunes to more intricate musical theater structures in the , incorporating layered ensembles and integrated book-song dynamics in shows like Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and Bells Are Ringing.

Personal Life

Marriages and Family

Jule Styne was married twice during his lifetime. His first marriage was to Rubenstein in 1927, a union that produced two sons, Stanley and Norton, and ended in divorce in 1952. In 1962, Styne married Margaret Ann Bissett Brown, an English-born former model, and this second marriage endured until his death in 1994, with the couple having two children together: a son named and a daughter named . Styne maintained a private family life, with scant public information available on his personal relationships beyond these basic details. The family primarily resided in as his career centered on Broadway, though they spent time in Hollywood during his film-related work, including a home in Beverly Hills in the late .

Philanthropy and Personal Interests

In his later years, Jule Styne dedicated time to mentoring young composers, offering guidance and encouragement to emerging talents in the musical theater world, including , who credited Styne alongside other industry figures for shaping his early career development. Styne demonstrated commitment to industry advocacy through his longstanding involvement with organizations supporting songwriters, notably as a 1972 inductee into the , where he contributed to efforts recognizing and preserving the legacy of musical creators. Among his personal interests, Styne enjoyed , a that began with a successful bet on during his teenage years in . He also relished socializing with Broadway's inner circle, sharing stories from his travels between , , and New York during casual gatherings with peers in the entertainment community.

Death and Legacy

Circumstances of Death

Jule Styne died on September 20, 1994, at the age of 88 from while hospitalized at in , New York. He had been admitted to the hospital six weeks earlier following open-heart surgery to address a heart ailment, after which his condition steadily declined. In the early , Styne's health had begun to falter, marked by increasing frailty that limited his once-vibrant public engagements, though he occasionally attended nightclub performances to hear renditions of his compositions. This period of reduced activity contrasted with his active involvement in Broadway tributes and events as late as the . Funeral services for Styne were held on September 23, 1994, in , drawing friends and colleagues from the theater world. He was subsequently buried at Cemetery in . Following his death, Styne's estate was managed by his widow, Margaret Styne, who oversaw the preservation of his professional materials. His archive, encompassing original handwritten compositions, letters, production materials, and other documents spanning his career, was donated to the at the , where it remains a key resource for researchers.

Posthumous Recognition and Enduring Impact

Following Jule Styne's death in 1994, his works have seen significant revivals on Broadway, underscoring their timeless appeal. The musical Gypsy, for which Styne composed the score, received a notable 1990 revival starring Tyne Daly as Rose, which ran for 477 performances and earned Daly a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. More recently, a 2024 Broadway revival directed by George C. Wolfe and starring Audra McDonald as Rose opened at the Majestic Theatre in November 2024, playing 28 previews and 269 performances before closing on August 17, 2025; McDonald, an 11-time Tony nominee, received widespread acclaim for her portrayal, highlighting the score's dramatic intensity. Similarly, Funny Girl, Styne's 1964 hit with lyrics by Bob Merrill, experienced a long-awaited Broadway revival in 2022 at the August Wilson Theatre, initially starring Beanie Feldstein as Fanny Brice and later Lea Michele, who assumed the role in September 2022 and helped extend the run through September 2023 with over 400 performances; this production emphasized the songs' enduring charisma, including "Don't Rain on My Parade" and "People." Styne's influence extends to contemporary composers, who credit his melodic craftsmanship and theatrical flair as foundational. , the Tony-winning composer of Wicked and Pippin, has cited Styne among his primary influences, alongside and Bock and Harnick, noting in interviews that Styne's Broadway-style scores shaped his early songwriting approach before evolving toward pop sensibilities. This legacy manifests in the persistent popularity of Styne's songs within pop culture, where standards like and "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!" remain fixtures in recordings, concerts, and media. While no major new awards were bestowed upon Styne between 2020 and 2025, his posthumous recognition continues through institutional tributes and archival preservation. The ASCAP Foundation, where Styne was a longtime member, has sustained his legacy via ongoing programs honoring classic songwriters, including virtual events and educational initiatives that feature his catalog in composer spotlights. Broadway archives, such as those at the , maintain extensive collections of Styne's manuscripts and recordings, supporting scholarly research and public exhibitions that affirm his role in shaping the . In 2025, The Ziegfeld Society presented a tribute concert celebrating Styne's music, including selections from Funny Girl, further evidencing the composer's lasting resonance in theatrical circles.

Awards and Honors

Major Theatrical and Film Awards

Jule Styne received one Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Three Coins in the Fountain," from the 1954 film of the same name, at the ceremony in 1955. This victory highlighted his success in composing memorable film ballads, often in collaboration with lyricist . Over his career, Styne earned ten nominations in the Best Original Song category, including for "I Fall in Love Too Easily" from (1945), "It's Magic" from (1948), "The Second Time Around" from High Time (1961), and "Funny Girl" from Funny Girl (1969). Styne also received two Grammy Awards during his career, including for Best Score from an Original Cast Show Album for Funny Girl (1965). Additionally, he was honored with an Emmy for Outstanding Achievement in Music Direction for the 1987 PBS special Broadway Sings: The Music of Jule Styne. In 1990, he received a Drama Desk Special Award for his lifetime contributions to theater music. In the theatrical realm, Styne's most prominent competitive honor was the Tony Award for Best Original Score for Hallelujah, Baby!, awarded in 1968 for his music alongside lyrics by and . He received several Tony nominations for his Broadway contributions, such as Best Musical for Bells Are Ringing (1957), Best Musical and Best Original Score for Funny Girl (1964), Best Musical for Gypsy (1960), and Best Musical for Do Re Mi (1961). Earlier in his career, Styne also garnered recognition through the Donaldson Awards, precursors to the Tonys, including a win for Best Musical Producer for Gentlemen Prefer Blondes in 1949. Additionally, he received a Award for his work on Bells Are Ringing in 1957, affirming his impact on mid-century American musical theater.

Hall of Fame Inductions and Tributes

Jule Styne was inducted into the in 1972, recognizing his prolific contributions to through compositions that became standards in theater and film. This honor celebrated his role in crafting enduring hits like "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend" and "," which exemplified his melodic craftsmanship and collaboration with lyricists such as and . In 1981, Styne was elected to the American Theatre Hall of Fame by the American Theatre Wing, an accolade bestowed upon individuals with at least 25 years of distinguished service to Broadway. The induction highlighted his transformative impact on musical theater, with works spanning from High Button Shoes to Gypsy. Styne received the in 1990, one of the nation's highest cultural awards, for his lifetime achievement as a whose songs captured the spirit of American optimism and showmanship. The ceremony paid tribute to his ability to blend heartfelt ballads with infectious rhythms, influencing generations of performers and creators. Among other pre-1994 tributes, Styne was awarded the in 1988, honoring his pioneering work in musical theater composition. He also received the Board of Directors Award in 1986. In 1993, he was presented with the Award, the organization's highest honor for songwriting achievement. In 1985, the featured a special segment saluting his catalog, with stars performing excerpts from his shows to underscore his legacy on Broadway. Earlier, in 1959, a tribute to his 25 years in was entered into the , praising his enrichment of American culture through music.

Notable Works

Broadway Musicals

Jule Styne composed music for nineteen Broadway musicals, marking his significant contributions to the form from 1947 through the 1970s. His productions often centered on romantic comedies infused with narratives or tales of personal triumph, frequently crafted as star vehicles to highlight charismatic female leads like in Gypsy or in Bells Are Ringing. These works exemplified the exuberant style of mid-20th-century American musical theater, blending catchy melodies with heartfelt storytelling to capture the era's and glamour. Among Styne's commercial triumphs was High Button Shoes (1947), a lively romp set in 1913 Atlantic City that ran for 727 performances, propelled by its energetic dance numbers and nostalgic charm. Similarly, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1949), a satirical take on excess starring , achieved 740 performances and became a benchmark for witty, gold-digging heroines in musical comedy. Gypsy (1959), a semi-autobiographical showbiz saga based on Gypsy Rose Lee's memoirs, enjoyed 702 performances and earned widespread acclaim for its dramatic depth and emotional resonance. Other successes included Bells Are Ringing (1956, 924 performances), Do Re Mi (1960, 687 performances), Funny Girl (1964, 1,348 performances), and Hallelujah, Baby! (1967, 293 performances, ). both leveraging star power to explore themes of ambition and romance. Not all of Styne's ventures met with prolonged success; some served as bold experiments amid the evolving landscape of Broadway. Subways Are for Sleeping (1961), an unconventional comedy about New York eccentrics, managed only 205 performances despite innovative staging and a Tony-nominated score. Darling of the Day (1968), an Edwardian-era adaptation of Arnold Bennett's novel Buried Alive starring and , closed after 28 performances, though it garnered Tonys for Routledge's performance and the costumes. These shorter runs highlighted Styne's willingness to innovate, even when commercial viability proved elusive. Several of Styne's Broadway hits, such as Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and Gypsy, later inspired successful film adaptations that extended their cultural reach.

Film Scores and Songs

Jule Styne contributed music to over 50 films across his career, starting with incidental and stock music in the early 1940s before transitioning to original compositions that garnered critical acclaim and Academy Award recognition. His early Hollywood work often involved providing background scores for comedies and musicals, such as the full original score for My Sister Eileen (), where he crafted upbeat tunes to complement the film's portrayal of two sisters navigating life in . This marked a shift from uncredited stock music contributions, like those in Home in Wyomin' (), to bespoke scores that highlighted his melodic versatility. In the mid-1940s, Styne's partnerships, particularly with lyricist , produced iconic songs for films featuring stars like and , elevating his profile in Hollywood. For instance, in Anchors Aweigh (1945), their ballad "I Fall in Love Too Easily," performed by Sinatra, earned a nomination for Best Original Song at the . Similarly, Romance on the High Seas (1948), Doris Day's screen debut, featured their nominated tune "It's Magic," which captured the film's romantic whimsy and was recognized at the . Other notable 1940s contributions included "I've Heard That Song Before" from Youth on Parade (1942), nominated in 1943, and "I'll Walk Alone" from Follow the Boys (1944), nominated the following year, both showcasing Styne's ability to blend nostalgia with wartime sentiment. These songs, often interpolated into star vehicles, helped establish Styne's reputation for crafting hits that resonated beyond the screen. Styne's film output peaked in the with Oscar-caliber originals, culminating in his sole Academy Award win for Best Original Song for "Three Coins in the Fountain," the title track of the 1954 romantic drama starring and , with lyrics again by Cahn. This victory highlighted his evolution toward sophisticated, cinematic melodies. By the decade's end, Styne continued influencing film musicals through songs in productions like Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953), though his primary impact remained in original film songs that bridged Broadway flair with Hollywood polish.

Selected Standout Compositions

Jule Styne's compositional output includes around 50 enduring standards that have been extensively recorded and performed across genres, cementing his place in the . One of his most celebrated works, "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend," premiered in the 1949 Broadway musical Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and quickly became a cultural touchstone through its vibrant, celebratory . The song's lively and memorable hooks led to numerous recordings, including versions by in the original cast and later interpretations by artists like . From the 1959 Broadway hit Gypsy, "Everything's Coming Up Roses" stands out for its upbeat, triumphant orchestration, capturing themes of ambition and renewal in a rousing . Merman's powerhouse delivery in the original production inspired countless covers, from Barbra Streisand's interpretations to orchestral arrangements in revivals, highlighting its versatility in both stage and pop contexts. "," composed for the 1964 Broadway musical Funny Girl, features a soaring, emotive that underscores and has been a staple in vocal repertoires. Barbra Streisand's rendition on the original cast album propelled it to chart success, with subsequent recordings by artists like and demonstrating its lasting appeal in and settings. Among Styne's early pop successes, "I've Heard That Song Before" emerged in 1942 as a nostalgic evoking memory and romance through its wistful phrasing. The song topped the via and Helen Forrest's recording, influencing and swing eras with over a million copies sold. Similarly, "It's Magic," released in 1948 for the film , enchanted audiences with its whimsical, enchanting tune that conveys wonder and enchantment. Doris Day's performance drove it to number two on the charts, spawning enduring covers by vocalists such as and , and maintaining popularity in holiday and romantic playlists.

References

  1. https://www.pbs.org/wnet/broadway/stars/jule-styne/
  2. https://norman.hrc.utexas.edu/fasearch/findingAid.cfm?eadid=01167
  3. https://www.songhall.org/profiles/jule-styne
  4. https://www.jazzstandards.com/biographies/biography_280.htm
  5. https://www.nytimes.com/1994/09/21/obituaries/jule-styne-bountiful-creator-of-song-favorites-dies-at-88.html
  6. https://masterworksbroadway.com/artist/jule-styne/
  7. https://www.encyclopedia.com/arts/dictionaries-thesauruses-pictures-and-press-releases/styne-jule-originally-stein-julius-kerwin
  8. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1994-09-21-mn-41221-story.html
  9. https://www.masterworksbroadway.com/music/high-button-shoes-original-broadway-cast-1947/
  10. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/high-button-shoes-1576
  11. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/gentlemen-prefer-blondes-1845
  12. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/peter-pan-2470
  13. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/bells-are-ringing-2590
  14. https://playbill.com/article/bells-are-ringing-to-play-plymouth-april-2001-marc-kudisch-is-cast-com-93281
  15. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/gypsy-2743
  16. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/funny-girl-3054
  17. https://www.encyclopedia.com/education/news-wires-white-papers-and-books/styne-jule
  18. https://secondhandsongs.com/work/122357
  19. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0040745/soundtrack/
  20. https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/1955
  21. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/hallelujah-baby-2940
  22. https://www.tonyawards.com/winners/year/1968/category/any/show/any/
  23. https://playbill.com/article/revisit-leslie-uggams-in-the-tony-winning-hallelujah-baby
  24. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/sugar-3528
  25. https://playbill.com/article/on-april-9-1972-sugar-based-on-some-like-it-hot-opens-on-broadway
  26. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/lorelei-3699
  27. https://playbill.com/article/playbill-vaults-today-in-theatre-history-january-27-com-329410
  28. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jule-Styne
  29. https://www.chicagotribune.com/1987/03/05/songwriter-jule-styne-the-great-collaborator/
  30. https://theculturalcritic.com/songwriters-sammy-cahn-julie-styne/
  31. https://www.pbs.org/wnet/gperf/broadway-musicals-a-jewish-legacy-about-the-film/1476/
  32. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0006312/bio/
  33. https://archive.architecturaldigest.com/article/1947/1/residence-of-mr-and-mrs-jule-styne-beverly-hills-california
  34. https://www.masterworksbroadway.com/news/maury-yeston-on-mentors/
  35. https://www.upi.com/Archives/1994/09/20/Composer-Jules-Styne-dead-at-88/6179780033600/
  36. https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/local/1994/09/21/songwriter-jule-styne-dies/5eb2dc6a-0979-4750-ba34-704817fa813c/
  37. https://www.deseret.com/1994/10/6/19134935/jule-styne-reigned-supreme-on-broadway/
  38. https://www.nytimes.com/1987/03/03/theater/stars-salute-jule-styne.html
  39. https://www.nndb.com/people/430/000205812/
  40. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/7983946/jule-styne
  41. https://playbill.com/article/margaret-styne-widow-of-jule-styne-has-passed-away
  42. https://research.hrc.utexas.edu/fasearch/findingAid.cfm?eadid=01167
  43. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/gypsy-5048
  44. https://playbill.com/article/gypsy-revival-starring-audra-mcdonald-finishes-run-august-17
  45. https://www.broadway.com/buzz/205931/one-last-turn-gypsy-starring-audra-mcdonald-sets-final-broadway-performance/
  46. https://people.com/theater/funny-girl-broadway-musical-revival-timeline/
  47. https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/23/theater/funny-girl-beanie-feldstein.html
  48. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/funny-girl-532545
  49. https://stephenschwartz.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/SchwartzOnHisCareer.pdf
  50. https://www.songwriter.co.uk/page717.html
  51. https://www.popcultureclassics.com/stephen_schwartz.html
  52. https://www.ascap.com/news-events/archive
  53. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNtZb5b4o2p/
  54. https://www.atogt.com/askoscar/nominations-by-category.php?cat=music-song
  55. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0006312/awards/
  56. https://www.concordtheatricals.com/a/3715/jule-styne
  57. https://grammy.com/artists/jule-styne/17458
  58. https://www.televisionacademy.com/awards/nominees-winners/1987/outstanding-music-direction
  59. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-cast-staff/jule-styne-12466
  60. https://www.broadwayworld.com/tonyawardspersoninfo.php?nomname=Jule+Styne
  61. https://www.nytimes.com/1981/03/03/theater/26-elected-theater-hall-fame-26-broadway-voted-into-theater-hall-fame.html
  62. https://www.kennedy-center.org/whats-on/honors/history/
  63. https://www.ascapfoundation.org/programs/awards/award-recipients/rodgers
  64. https://www.songhall.org/special-awards/board-of-directors-award
  65. https://www.johnnymercerfoundation.org/awards/
  66. https://www.nytimes.com/1985/06/04/theater/tv-reviews-tony-awards-on-cbs-live-from-shubert.html
  67. https://www.kennedy-center.org/artists/s/so-sz/jule-styne/
  68. https://playbill.com/article/high-button-shoes-opens-aug-8-at-goodspeed-new-styne-cahn-song-added-com-142866
  69. https://www.concordtheatricals.com/p/44617/gentlemen-prefer-blondes
  70. https://playbill.com/article/look-back-at-the-original-production-of-gypsy-starring-ethel-merman
  71. https://playbill.com/production/subways-are-for-sleeping-st-james-theatre-vault-0000004203
  72. https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/darling-of-the-day-3118
  73. https://www.windrep.org/Jule_Styne
  74. https://www.mtishows.com/people/jule-styne
  75. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0034866/fullcredits/
  76. https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/1946
  77. https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/1949
  78. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0045810/
  79. https://secondhandsongs.com/work/33609/all
  80. https://secondhandsongs.com/work/112527/all
  81. https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/theatre-news/news/quarantune-17-people-from-funny-girl
  82. https://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/object/nmah_681478
  83. https://secondhandsongs.com/work/11823/all
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.