Remembering Jerry Herman and the Joyous Music He Made

December 29, 2019 Mark Robinson

On December 26, 2019 we lost one of Broadway’s greatest composers, one who infused every song he penned with emotion and a deep understanding of the character for whom he was writing. Jerry Herman, with his melody and lyrics, brought to life some of musical theatre’s most colorful and unforgettable characters, reminding us to celebrate life. One should not underestimate the joy, pure, unadulterated joy that he brought to us through songs for characters like Dolly Levi, Mame Dennis, Georges and Albin. This kind of fun, melody and embrace of the human spirit is rare in the contemporary musical theatre, something that is sorely lacking. Though he hadn’t written for the musical stage in some time, with Herman’s passing, we have lost a one-of-a-kind voice from a time where musical comedy scores were joyous, infectious, warm, and, most importantly, illuminating without being starkly literal.

Herman wrote the scores for such Broadway musicals as Milk & Honey, Hello, Dolly!, Mame, Dear World, Mack and Mabel, The Grand Tour, and La Cage aux Folles. In remembrance of this prolific composer and the contributions he made to the world of musical theatre, what better way to pay tribute to him than to compile clips from some of his most delightful songs? I hope you will join me in strolling through the music of Jerry Herman, nostalgic for the old-fashioned showtune that he provided with both heart and verve.

Bosom Buddies - Mame

Marianne - The Grand Tour

Another Candle - Parade

Chin Up, Ladies - Milk and Honey

I Am What I Am - La Cage aux Folles

Look What Happened to Mabel - Mack and Mabel

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Each Tomorrow Morning - Dear World

Avenue A - Mrs. Santa Claus

Put On Your Sunday Clothes - Hello, Dolly!

Gooch’s Song - Mame

Milk and Honey - Milk and Honey