Andy Razaf

Andy Razaf (1895-1973), (born Andriamanantena Paul Razafinkarefo) African American poet, and lyricist for such well-known songs as "Ain't Misbehavin'," "Honeysuckle Rose," "In the Mood," "Black and Blue" and "Stompin' at the Savoy." Born in Washington, D.C., the son of a Malagasy man and the daughter of the first African American consul to Madagascar. He was the nephew of Queen Ranavalona III of Madagascar.

Raised in Harlem, he collaborated with Fats Waller and other Tin Pan Alley musicians as well as Benny Goodman, Eubie Blake and others.

Further Reference

• Black and Blue: The Life and Lyrics of Andy Razaf by Barry Singer, Foreword by Bobby Short, ISBN 0028723953
• The Poets of Tin Pan Alley: A History of America's Great Lyricists by Philip Furia, ISBN 0195074734