Peter de Rose

In the vibrant landscape of early 20th-century American entertainment, Peter DeRose emerged as a multifaceted musical talent whose creativity transcended the boundaries of jazz, pop music, and radio broadcasting. A composer, pianist, and radio personality, DeRose left an indelible mark on the musical world during the golden era of radio and popular music.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Born on March 10, 1896, in New York City, Peter DeRose discovered his musical passion at an early age. Growing up in a supportive family environment, he learned to play the piano from his older sister, showing a remarkable aptitude for music that would define his entire career. His musical journey began professionally when F.B. Haviland published his first song, "Tiger Rose Waltzes", when DeRose was just 18 years old. After graduating in 1917, DeRose initially worked as a stock room clerk in a music store. However, his composition "When You're Gone, I Won't Forget" became a pivotal moment, securing him a position at the New York office of an Italian music publisher. This early success hinted at the remarkable musical career that would follow.

Radio and Musical Collaboration

In 1923, a significant turning point in DeRose's career occurred when he met May Singhi Breen. When she performed with the ukulele group The Syncopators, a professional and personal relationship blossomed. Breen left her group to join DeRose in a musical radio show called The Sweethearts of the Air, where he played piano and she played ukulele. Their radio show became immensely popular, running for an impressive 16 years. In 1929, they married, transforming their professional partnership into a personal one. The radio show not only provided them with a stable income but also served as a platform for introducing DeRose's compositions to a wide audience.

Compositional Achievements and Collaborations

DeRose was a prolific composer who collaborated with numerous lyricists, including Charlie Tobias, Al Stillman, Carl Sigman, and Billy Hill. His musical talents extended beyond radio, composing for Broadway musicals like Yes Yes Yvette and Earl Carroll's Vanities of 1928, as well as the hit play Excess Baggage in 1927. His most famous composition, "Deep Purple", written in 1934 as a piano piece, gained widespread popularity when lyrics were added later. The song became a hit for various artists, including Glenn Miller & His Orchestra in 1939, and was recorded by numerous musicians. Its enduring popularity was evident when it became a hit again in 1976 as a duet.

Legacy and Later Career

Throughout the late 1940s and early 1950s, DeRose continued to write songs for Hollywood films. His last hit, "You Can Do It", was composed shortly before his death in New York City in 1953. In recognition of his significant contributions to music, he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970. Peter DeRose passed away on April 23, 1953, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that spanned jazz, pop, radio, and film. His ability to create memorable compositions and his innovative approach to musical entertainment solidified his place in 20th-century American music history.

Works and Appearances

Radio

• The Sweethearts of the Air (1923-1939) - Co-host and pianist with May Singhi Breen

Broadway Musicals

• Yes Yes Yvette - Composer
• Earl Carroll's Vanities of 1928 - Composer

Notable Compositions

• "Deep Purple" (1934)
• "Lilacs in the Rain" (1939)
• "Autumn Serenade" (1945)
• "The Song of the Seabees" (1943)

Film Music

• Composed music for several Hollywood films in late 1940s and early 1950s