Ervin Drake could be considered one of the greatest songwriters of The American Songbook. He lived from April 3, 1919 – January 15, 2015. This was a very candid interview and his wife Edith shared her perspectives as well. Some of the Standards Ervin Drake wrote include “I Believe” and “It Was a Very Good Year.” He also wrote English lyrics to the song “Tico-Tico” and “Quando, Quando.” The songs of Ervin Drake have been recorded Some of the most celebrated singers and musicians of our time including Frank Sinatra, Billie Holiday, Barbra Streisand, Elvis Presley, Frankie Laine, Duke Ellington, Steve Lawrence, Diana Ross, the Kingston Trio, and Perry Como…just to name a few. Ervin Drake was also a visual artist and has also worked as a television producer. He also worked with such legendary acts as Jackie Gleason and Milton Berle. He was the President of the American Guild of Authors and Composers for many years and was a recognized person in New York’s theatre and cabaret scene.
“It Was a Very Good Year” is perhaps one of the most iconic songs in American recorded music. The interview with Ervin Drake is only on The Paul Leslie Hour. Listen to the history come alive.