James van Heusen

American composer James Van Heusen (born Edward Chester Babcock) began his musical journey writing for local shows in Syracuse, New York. Van Heusen renamed himself at age 16 after the shirt makers Phillips-Van Heusen. A talented pianist and a prolific composer, he created songs for the Cotton Club and Tin Pan Alley. His remarkable career included collaborations with lyricists like Eddie DeLange and Johnny Burke, contributing to Hollywood's golden era by penning music for films and stage musicals, highlighted by his Academy Award-winning 'Swinging on a Star' (1944). A notable pilot, Van Heusen was also recognized for his flying skills. With Sammy Cahn, he secured three more Academy Awards and contributed to the soundtracks of many Frank Sinatra albums, solidifying his legacy in American popular music.