Arlen, Harold. (1905–1986) Inscribed OZ Recording to Jerome Kern

Arlen, Harold. (1905–1986)

Inscribed OZ Recording to Jerome Kern

1940 Decca Recording Release "Wizard of OZ" original (78) record set. Playfully inscribed on the cover by Harold Arlen to fellow composer, Jerome Kern: "For Jerry - If you run short of ideas - remember the files - Best - Harold Arlen 2-17-40." Inscription in black ink on first record sleeve. Label Information: Decca Trade Mark Registered - Manufactured in U.S.A. (DLA 1845) Album 74 (8 sides) Vocal with Orchestra. Victor Young and His Orchestra - 8 record set: (record 1) Munchkinland, Part I / Munchkinland, Part II - (record II) If I Only Had a Brain (If I Only Had the Nerve) - (record III) We’re Off to See the Wizard / The Merry Old Land of Oz - (record 4 is lacking). Album covers disbound at spine, inscription slightly smudged, but autograph, records and sleeves in otherwise fine condition.

A letter (not included) from Arlen's wife, Anya Taranda, makes reference to the fact that Harold had sent a signed copy of the albums to Kern after returning to the West Coast (where both they and Kern lived) from a visit to NYC. The "files" mentioned in the inscription presumably concern an upcoming film score project being undertaken by Kern, most likely "Lady Be Good" which was released the following year and which won Kern an Oscar for "The Last Time I saw Paris," beating out the Arlen/Mercer contender, "Blue in the Night." (4214)

Signed Photograph Song