Album Notes

This CD is based on a show I performed in Spring 2009 at Don’t Tell Mama in New York City devoted to the lyrics of E.Y. “Yip” Harburg.

Yip had a 50 year career as a lyricist, writing for musical theatre and films, including such shows as Finian’s Rainbow and the legendary film, The Wizard of Oz.

Yip believed that life should be approached with humor and hope, and more than a sizeable dose of irreverence. He has been described as Broadway’s social conscience; this CD highlights his songs of social comment – songs dealing with women’s rights, racial equality, the environment, money, power, peace and love.

The CD opens with a joyous song of liberation from The Wizard of Oz, and includes several songs from Finian’s Rainbow, which has just been revived on Broadway to rave reviews. It also includes many wonderful songs from less well known musicals and films and at least one never before recorded song, that was written during the height of the Vietnam war, and is an anthem to peace.

Though Yip died in 1981, his wondrous lyrics are still so very timely.