Boston Songwriter Jimmy McHugh Wrote 500+ Hits for Hollywood During Illustrious Career

Born in Jamaica Plain, songwriter Jimmy McHugh (1894-1969) was hailed as one of Hollywood's top composers. During his career, McHugh wrote more than 500 hit songs, including, "On the Sunny Side of the Street," "I'm in the Mood for Love," 'Let's Get Lost" and countless other songs that were recorded by the likes of Frank Sinatra, Ella FitzGerald, Billie Holiday and Chet Baker.

Born on July 10, 1894, Jimmy's father James was a plumber, and his mother Julia (Collins) was an accomplished pianist who Jimmy credited for his career in music. He grew up in an Irish-American community, part of a neighborhood that included boxer John L. Sullivan and politician James Michael Curley. In his youth McHugh worked at the Boston Opera House he practiced on the company's pianos and got to met stars like Enrico Caruso.

In 1920, McHugh moved to New York City to work for Irving Berlin and there met lyricist Dorothy Fields. The two of the moved to Hollywood in 1930 and began writing for motion pictures.

Throughout his illustrious career, McHugh was also friends with many local politicians like Mayor Curley, Governor Paul Dever and President John F. Kennedy. His brother Lawrence McHugh was a state representative.

Jimmy passed away in 1969 and a year later was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

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Irish Boston History & Heritage

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