Comparing Lee Greenwood And Irving Berlin

In this paper we will learn and compare two famous composers of patriotic songs Lee Greenwood and Irving Berlin. These brilliant men are both renowned composers, and through the years have created brilliant catalogs of songs. As we compare and contrast Lee Greenwood and Irving Berlin in this paper we will identify multiple areas of their lives such as marital status, song styles, and even heritage. I choose these two fine individuals and their style of music because this style and genre is a true reflection of my childhood and how I felt when I lived with my grandparents.
The first composer we will be discussing is Lee Greenwood. Originally born as Melvin Lee Greenwood in Los Angeles, California on October 27, 1942. Lee Greenwood started
Berlin came to the United States at age 5 with his parents due to religious reasons. The majority of his education was in New York's public schools until he dropped out to pursue his musical career. A large part of his early music education was from his dad who was a cantor in the Jewish service. Although Berlin never received a formal degree he did earn two honorary degrees from Becknell University and Temple University. As Berlin began his career he worked as a song advertiser and singing waiter in Chinatown. Berlin furthered his career as a staff lyricist and then eventually became a partner in the company almost 5 years later, the company was known as Ted Snyder Company. Berlin advanced his career by doing vaudeville which was popular in the early 1900’s he appeared in “Up and Down Broadway” which ran for 72 performances in the United States and overseas. In 1914 he served in World War I and became a sergeant and was stationed in Upton, New York. Berlin did own his own public relations firm and 1025 seat theatre in New York, the theatre still remains as a Broadway institution today. Irving Berlin was married twice his first wife died in their first year of marriage from typhoid, his was married to his second wife Ellin for 62 years until her death. Irving Berlin died of natural causes at the age of 101 in New York City on September 22, 1989. Irving Berlin did not have one
Lee Greenwood has been married 3 times and has 6 children, two with his last wife who is a former Miss Tennessee. Irving Berlin had four children, three of whom lived and his only son died at 24 days old of sudden infant death syndrome. Irving Berlin’s first wife died in their first year of marriage, and was married to his second wife Ellin for sixty two years, until her death. Irving Berlin and Lee Greenwood are both known for famous patriotic compositions which have led to multiple USO tours a multiple relief charities benefiting both artists love and compassion for the United States Military. Both Lee Greenwood and Irving Berlin have multiple number one hit awards, tony awards, and even received a star on the Hollywood walk of fame for Irving Berlin. The other significant difference is that each of these men were born at different time periods which greatly affected there music and how it influenced the music at that time they lived in and for many generations to come. Each left a lasting impression with their musical style and lyrical