Mercer, Johnny, 1909-1976

The Johnny and Ginger Mercer Papers contain manuscripts, photographs, sheet music, recordings, printed materials, and memorabilia documenting the early careers (1920s through about 1931) of both Johnny and Ginger Mercer; their courtship and marriage (1930 and 1931); and Johnny Mercer's career as a songwriter, performer, and businessman as it continued after their marriage; Johnny Mercer's work as a lyricist.

Steve Allen (1921-2000) was a well-known author, pianist, comedian, composer, and actor. He was an admirer of Johnny Mercer's lyrics. After Mercer's death, his widow Ginger Mercer and Bill Harbach encouraged Allen to write a song to a title Mercer had created, "Your Wife Is the Love of My Life." This collection consists of a lead sheet and typed lyrics for Allen's "Your Wife Is the Love of My Life."