Irving Berlin (1888-1989) The composer was born Israel Baline in Temun, Russia. Arguably America's greatest popular songwriter, he wrote music and lyrics for such classics as "Cheek to Cheek," "Puttin' on the Ritz," and "Top Hat," not to mention "There's No Business Like Show Business," and the nation's unofficial national anthem, "God Bless America." While the holidays wouldn't be the same without his "White Christmas" and "Easter Parade," he also recalled his roots in such ditties as "Sadie Salome, Go Home."