Allan Sherman
Allan Sherman
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Allan Sherman was born on November 26, 1924, in Boston, Massachusetts. He is often referred to by his pen name, Al Sherman.
Birth and Death Dates
November 26, 1924 – October 20, 1973
Nationality and Profession(s)
American Comedian, Songwriter, Parodist
Early Life and Background
Allan Sherman grew up in a Jewish family with strong musical traditions. His father, Raphael "Raph" Sherman, was a popular singer, songwriter, and music publisher who owned a successful publishing company, Raphaella Music Corporation. This exposure to the music industry from an early age likely influenced Sherman's future career choices.
Major Accomplishments
Allan Sherman is best known for his comedic song parodies that often mocked contemporary culture, society, and politics. His most famous work is the 1963 album "Allan Sherman," which included hits like "Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh" (parodying Leonard Bernstein's "West Side Story") and "What Makes Me Love Her?" (a sendup of Elvis Presley's style).
Sherman's parodies often used clever wordplay, witty observations, and satire to poke fun at serious issues. His unique blend of humor and musical skill made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
Notable Works or Actions
In addition to his album "Allan Sherman," he wrote numerous songs for other artists and composed music for television shows and films. Some notable works include:
"My Son, the Doctor" (a parody of traditional Jewish folk songs)
"You Went Down to Texas" (a comedic tribute to a fictional Texas vacation)
Sherman's work was not limited to music; he also made appearances on television shows and wrote articles for publications like _Playboy_ magazine.
Impact and Legacy
Allan Sherman's influence can be seen in the work of many comedians, musicians, and writers who followed in his footsteps. His irreverent style and ability to tackle sensitive topics with humor paved the way for future generations of satirists.
Sherman's legacy extends beyond the world of entertainment; he helped shape public opinion on issues like racism, politics, and social justice through his parodies.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Allan Sherman is widely quoted and remembered for his:
Witty observations on contemporary culture
Innovative use of satire in songwriting
* Ability to tackle sensitive topics with humor
As a master of comedic song parodies, Allan Sherman left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. His legacy continues to inspire and influence artists today.
His unique blend of humor, satire, and wit has cemented his place as one of the most beloved figures in American comedy history.
Quotes by Allan Sherman

Temples also take into consideration an ability to pay and, in a general sense, do not turn people away if there’s a need,.

Anyone who calls it “sexual intercourse” can’t possibly be interested in actually doing it. You might as well announce you’re ready for lunch by proclaiming, “I’d like to do some masticating and enzyme secreting.”

I had moved out of the Edison Hotel because I couldn’t pay the bill and was living at the Lincoln Hotel, where I couldn’t pay the bill either, but it was cheaper.

The head coach don’t want no sissies, so he reads to us from something called Ulysses.

You want to fall in love with a shoe, go ahead. A shoe can’t love you back, but, on the other hand, a shoe can’t hurt you too deeply either. And there are so many nice-looking shoes.

The whole city gives you the impression of impermanence. You have the feeling that one day someone is going to yell, “Cut! Strike it!” and then the stagehands will scurry out and remove the mountains, the movie-star homes, the Hollywood Bowl – everything.

Adultery – which is the only grounds for divorce in New York – is not grounds for divorce in California. As a matter of fact, adultery in Southern California is grounds for marriage.

A “Normal” person is the sort of person that might be designed by a committee. You know, “Each person puts in a pretty color and it comes out gray.”

There’s Beatles books and T-shirts and rings, and one thing and another. To buy my daughter all these things, I had to sell her brother.

After the Lincoln Hotel people showed their colors by demanding payment, we turned our back on them. We moved out.