Gordon Clifford (1902–June 11, 1968[1]) was an Americanlyricist who wrote music forHollywood films in the 1930s. His best-known songs includeNacio Herb Brown's "Paradise",Alfred Newman's "Who Am I?" andHarry Barris's "It Must Be True" and "I Surrender Dear".[2][3]
Clifford was born inRhode Island and started studying the violin as a child. In the 1920s, he wrote lyrics forThe Rhythm Boys when they were appearing at theCocoanut Grove in Los Angeles.[1] His first success as a songwriter came in the early 1930s, whenBing Crosby recorded "It Must Be True" and "I Surrender Dear" withGus Arnheim's orchestra. The latter song has been recorded by many artists and is considered ajazz standard.Pola Negri sang Clifford and Nacio Herb Brown's "Paradise" in the 1931 filmA Woman Commands. Although the film was unsuccessful, Bing Crosby's cover version of "Paradise" became a hit.[2]
Clifford died in a traffic accident in Las Vegas on June 11, 1968.[1]
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