Song Writers

Felix McGIennon was both a lyric writer and composer, one of the very best.

He was one of those who had the unique experience of reading his own obituary notices when American papers reported his death. Later, he went to America and called on the editor of the paper in which he had been given considerable space, thanking him very much for what he had said. He found the stories of American salesmanship which he had heard were much exaggerated. He went to a big store for a toothbrush and had difficulty in getting any attention but he was served at last. When he had paid for the article the attendant walked coolly away. "I say," said McGIennon, "in England the man who served me would have said "Thank you." The American regarded him coldly. "Why?" he queried. MeGlennon had no reply.

A smart, lively man with a keen eye to business, McGIennon watched the rise of promising young artists and when they came to town he would be there to sell them songs; and for that purpose he always wore a shiny tall hat and an immaculate frock coat. Brother songwriters, seeing him thus attired. knew that a "pigeon" (so a newcomer to the halls was called) was about. His lyrics were first-rate, he wrote "That Is Love" for Marie Loftus, "The Ship I Love" for Tom Costello, and wrote and composed "Songs Of The Sea" for Arthur Reece.

Another song of his, which everyone will remember, was "Her Golden Hair Was Hanging Down Her Back;" it was sung by Alice Leamar and is closely associated with the late Sir Seymour Hicks. McGIennon wrote both the words and the music for that.

"The Melodies Linger On" by Walter Macqueen-Pope