Leonard Whitcup

Leonard Whitcup (October 12, 1903 – April 6, 1979) was an American lyricist and composer educated at New York University, where he studied music under David Saperton and Orville Mayhood. From 1925 to 1934, he wrote music and lyrics for radio and performed with his trio, The Playboys. From 1934 to 1977, he composed works for vaudeville, revues, television (including The Soupy Sales Show), and film, including Rollin' Plains, Sweet Moments, Weekend Italian Style, Sons of Hercules, and Pippi Longstocking.
He collaborated with songwriters including Teddy Powell, Walter G. Samuels, and Chet Gierlach. His output also included choral hymns and patriotic works, notably "I Am an American," entered into the Congressional Record in 1941.
Whitcup held administrative positions in several music organizations, including the American Guild of Authors and Composers and the National Academy of Popular Music. He died in New York on April 6, 1979, at age 75.