Famous Lyricists.

49 PROFILES

49 celebrated lyricists whose words gave voice to generations. From Broadway legends and Tin Pan Alley scribes to poets of modern pop.

Editor’s spotlight — updated daily

Oscar Hammerstein II

United States

Oscar Hammerstein II wrote the lyrics and libretto for Oklahoma! 1943, the revolutionary musical that changed Broadway by integrating song and story. He collaborated with composer Richard Rodgers on classics like The Sound of Music 1959 and South Pacific 1949, winning eight Tony Awards. His earlier work with Jerome Kern on Show Boat 1927 tackled serious themes like racism. Hammerstein died of stomach cancer in 1960 at age 65.

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