Nat Simon (6 August 1900 – 5 September 1979) was an American composer, pianist, bandleader, and songwriter. Born in Newburgh, New York, he was active primarily from the 1930s to the 1950s, during which time his songs were featured in over 20 films.
Between 1931 and 1940, Simon participated in the musical Vaudeville revue Songwriters on Parade, which showcased hit songwriters of the day and was considered one of the last Vaudevillian forays of its type. His daughter, Sally Simon Meisel, who sang vocals, was an integral part of his live performances.
Notable songs
- "Poinciana" (1936)
- "The Old Lamp-Lighter" (1946)
- "An Apple Blossom Wedding" (1947)
- "The Mama Doll Song" (1954)
- "Sandy's Tune" (from That Bad Eartha) (1954)
- "Istanbul (Not Constantinople)" (1953)
- "No Can Do" (from the Copacabana Revue, with Charlie Tobias) (1945)
His song "Poinciana," with English lyrics by Buddy Bernier and Spanish lyrics written in 1936 by Manuel Lliso, became widely popular in 1943 when multiple recordings by prominent orchestras and singers were released. Simon's compositions have continued to appear in later media, including films such as The Bridges of Madison County (1995) and Mona Lisa Smile (2003). He died on 5 September 1979 in Queens, New York.
