Harry Ruby, a distinguished Jewish American composer and screenwriter of immense skill and influence, was honored with a coveted induction into the esteemed Songwriters Hall of Fame in the year 1970, a fitting tribute to his extraordinary gifts and profound impact on the realm of music.
Throughout his life, Ruby was blessed with a loving and supportive partnership with the accomplished actress Eileen Percy, with whom he shared a profound and enduring bond, marked by a deep affection for one another, a sense of humor, and a shared passion for the arts.
Born in the bustling metropolis of New York City in the year 1895, Ruby's initial aspirations centered around achieving professional success as a baseball player. Unfortunately, his dreams of hitting a home run in the world of sports were not meant to be, and he was forced to redirect his energies towards alternative pursuits.
It was during this transitional period that Ruby found himself touring the vaudeville circuit, showcasing his remarkable piano skills as a member of the Bootblack Trio and the Messenger Boys Trio. This exposure not only honed his musical talents but also provided a platform for him to meet and collaborate with other talented individuals, including the gifted lyricist Bert Kalmar, who would ultimately become his lifelong partner in both love and art.
Kalmar and Ruby, a dynamic duo of songwriters, embarked on a remarkable creative journey that spanned nearly three decades, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music, until the untimely and tragic passing of Kalmar in 1947. This extraordinary partnership, which defied the test of time, was immortalized in the 1950 MGM musical extravaganza, Three Little Words, a cinematic masterpiece that brought together two of the most iconic talents of the era: the incomparable Fred Astaire, who portrayed Kalmar with his signature elegance and poise, and the beloved Red Skelton, who brought Ruby to life with his unique blend of wit and charm.
