Douglas Furber

Douglas Furber was a British lyricist and playwright whose witty, tuneful works helped define the spirit of early 20th-century musical theatre. He is best remembered for writing the lyrics to “The Lambeth Walk” from the 1937 musical Me and My Girl, a song that swept across Britain and beyond as a dance craze and popular hit. His ability to capture everyday charm and humor in song made him a favorite among West End audiences.

Furber’s songwriting career included several enduring numbers, such as “The Bells of St. Mary’s,” which became a popular standard, and “Limehouse Blues,” a jazz favorite recorded by many greats. His work was not confined to music alone; he also penned numerous plays and musical comedies for the stage.

Notable works in his theatrical career included Afgar (1919), Mr. Whittington (1934), and Running Riot (1938–39). These productions showcased his versatility as both a storyteller and a craftsman of catchy, memorable lyrics.

A pioneer in new media, Furber’s Me and My Girl became the first full-length musical broadcast on television in 1939, bringing musical theatre into living rooms for the first time. This innovation further cemented his place in theatrical history.

Douglas Furber’s work remains emblematic of a lively, optimistic era in British entertainment, and his songs still charm audiences with their wit and melody.