Dana Suesse, songwriter (“You Ought to be in Pictures”), dies at age 75.

On October 16, 1987, the world bade farewell to one of the illustrious figures in music history, Dana Suesse. Known predominantly as the skilled songwriter behind the timeless favorite “You Ought to be in Pictures”, she departed from us at the age of 75, after a long and illustrious career that resonated all across the globe. Her tremendous contributions in the realm of music have been celebrated throughout, and her absence continues to be felt deeply within the industry.

Born Nadine Dana Suesse on December 3, 1909, she was an American composer, songwriter and pianist. Suesse was renowned for her talent and ability to harmoniously merge many genres including jazz, classical and pop. She initially gained fame and accolades from her work in the 1930s, where she was hailed as the ‘Girl Gershwin’.

Suesse’s most iconic work, “You Ought to be in Pictures”, was released in 1934. This number instantly became a massive hit, propelling her into the spotlight. This song contained a unique blend of humor, charm, and warm sentimentality that quickly captivated the hearts of millions globally. The timeless and catchy tune, coupled with the heartfelt lyrics, cemented her status as a worthy songwriter and conductor in the music industry.

Dana Suesse also had a knack for piano. She was a pupil of Alexander Siloti, who was a student of the renowned musician, Franz Liszt. She was a remarkable composer who gained recognition for her brilliant blend of classical and pop forms, with compositions including “Concerto in Three Rhythms” and “Jazz Nocturne.” Her abilities as a pianist and a composer were as varied and versatile, shining brightly in whatever musical avenue she chose to explore.

Primarily working in the music hubs of New York and Hollywood, Suesse composed scores for Broadway shows, films, and television. She worked with top-notch lyricists like Leo Robin and Sammy Cahn. Despite the music industry being male-dominated during her time, she broke barriers with her talent and determination, and became a role model for many budding female musicians.

Throughout her career, Dana Suesse collaborated with many prominent personalities in the music industry with her excellent networking capabilities. Key names included Paul Whiteman, a world-renowned bandleader, and Hal Le Roy, a tap dancer and actor. These collaborations, partnerships, and her solo works contributed to a rich, prolific career that spanned over six decades.

Years after her death, Dana Suesse’s music continues to inspire. Her melodies and compositions are still heard, reminding listeners of her exceptional talent. Despite her passing in 1987, her extraordinary gift continues to resonate, proving that her legacy is indeed timeless.

Dana Suesse’s life and work played a significant role in shaping the music industry. From composing scores to writing songs, her versatility made a profound impact. Her demise on October 16, 1987, marked the end of an era, but her legacy lives on. The genius behind the immortal “You Ought to be in Pictures” continues to inspire, reminding us that Suesse was indeed a musical force to be reckoned with. Today, as we remember Dana Suesse, we also pay homage to her outstanding body of work that will forever remain etched in our hearts and the annals of music history.