American Popular Song 5

To explain the history of the American Popular Song, there's probably no better book than American Popular Song: The Great Innovators 1900 – 1950 by Alec Wilder (1907 – 1980). Wilder was a composer of popular songs, operas, musicals, film music, and chamber music. He also had a radio program in the 1970s that I loved listening to on our local classical station.

The book traces the beginnings of American Popular Song back to the 1880s through WWI as it transitions from Stephen Foster to the songs of Tin Pan Alley. Wilder uses many examples of songs and lyrics throughout the book. It’s helpful to be able to read music, but not absolutely necessary. When he mentions a song, one can readily find it on YouTube and listen to what he talks about. His credentials are outstanding, being a composer himself and knowing many of the people he writes about. You’ll find everyone from Harold Arlen to Vincent Youmans and be astounded by how many great songs were written during this time that have become standards still sung today.

Written in 1972, the book talks about composers who were still alive and still writing. Alas, they are all gone now. Fortunately, recordings of their music are available via CD or streaming.

We’ll hear Frank Sinatra sing one of Alec Wilder’s most well-known songs, I’ll Be Around. Enjoy.