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Buddy worked in the Catskills as a singer, dancer and actor in his teens during the roaring 20s. His dream came true when he was hired to work in the famous Brill Building as a song plugger/writer for Lewis Music Co. & Popular Music Co. His friend, Milton Berle, gave him his nom de plume. He was known for his Big Band lyrics and Special Material. His lyrics were selected by Erskine Hawkins for Tuxedo Junction. Next, his lyrics were chosen for Jersey Bounce.
His publisher had contracts with many of the great African American band leaders and composers in the 30s and 40s. In addition to several tunes with Erskine Hawkins, Buddy wrote with Lester Young, Louis Jordan, Julian Dash, Bobby Plater, Wilbur (Dud) Bascomb, among others . His career was on the upswing, with his songs on the Hit Parade, and performers like Ella Fitzgerald, The Andrews Sisters and Cab Calloway singing his lyrics. He sang on the radio and life was on a roll until he was drafted into WWII.
Too modest to demand he be placed into Special Services, he was drafted into the infantry and sent to the Philippines, with the Army band playing his song, The Jersey Bounce, as he sailed away. When not under fire, he taught ballroom dancing to the company, composed songs, sang and led the band since they were too close to the front for the USO.
Upon his return, with a bronze star and a purple heart hiding in the drawer, he continued writing Big Band and Swing tunes, shows, special material for Milton Berle and Ed Sullivan and composed songs with Joe Williams. He formed his his own publishing company Essenjay Music.
He composed songs and wrote lyrics for over 50 years.
His Big Band classics include: Tuxedo Junction, Jersey Bounce, After Hours, Jumpin' With Symphony Sid, Dolomite, Aristocrat of Harlem, I Dreamt I Dwelt in Harlem, Cream Cheese and Jelly, Doodle Bug Hop, Feelin' Tip Top (recorded by Cab Calloway), Harlem Stomp, Heart as Big As Texas, and many others. Why was recorded by Nat King Cole.
One of the many highlights of his career was befriending the Manhattan Transfer and giving them original orchestrations for Tuxedo. Their friendship lasted 2 decades, and they celebrated his 80th birthday with him.
His catalog is available for recording. For more information please visit his website:
BuddyFeyne.com
