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Showing Collections: 1 - 5 of 5

Gene Lees papers

 Collection
Identifier: M060
Abstract: This collection consists of research materials used by Gene Lees when he was writing his Johnny Mercer biography, Portrait of Johnny: The life of John Herndon Mercer. The papers include the correspondence files of both Gene Lees and Johnny Mercer, Mercer family biographical information, page proofs of Portrait of Johnny, as well as an unpublished manuscript entitled Song Lake Summer. Other...
Dates: 1808-2004; Majority of material found within 1990 - 2004
Found in: Special Collections

Johnny and Ginger Mercer papers

 Collection
Identifier: M002
Abstract:

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.

Dates: 1925-circa 1992
Found in: Special Collections

Johnny Mercer papers

 Collection
Identifier: M001
Abstract: John Herndon Mercer (1909-1976), a native of Savannah, Georgia, began writing songs at the age of fifteen and eventually became one of the foremost figures of 20th century American popular music. His catalog includes many numbers that have become American classics, and his activities as lyricist, composer, performer and businessman span a period of nearly five decades. The Johnny Mercer papers consist of biographical materials (including an unpublished autobiography), correspondence, drafts...
Dates: 1885-1981
Found in: Special Collections

Sadie Vimmerstedt papers

 Collection
Identifier: M065
Abstract:

Sadie Vimmerstedt, who was a resident of Youngstown, Ohio, wrote a letter to Johnny Mercer in February of 1957 suggesting that Mercer write a song entitled "When Somebody Breaks Your Heart." Mercer wrote the song, ultimately sharing authorship with her on a 50/50 basis. Mrs. Vimmerstedt's collection includes Mercer's first letter to her, a few Christmas cards from Mercer, and photographs taken at the 1963 Grammy Awards banquet.

Dates: 1959-circa 1970
Found in: Special Collections

Vern Hansen papers

 Collection
Identifier: M201
Abstract: Vern Hansen (born March 17, 1918) worked as a musician and radio promotion specialist in Iowa, and moved to California in the 1960s. A songwriter and author, he corresponded with lyricist Johnny Mercer and singer Bing Crosby about his work and his efforts to succeed in the entertainment industry. His papers, 1934-1939, 1951-1984, 1990-2009, include correspondence, creative works, legal documents, and printed material. In addition to his correspondence with Mercer, much of the material...
Dates: 1934-1939, 1951-1984, 1990-2009
Found in: Special Collections

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