American songwriter and producer George Gard De Sylva was a prolific figure in early 20th-century popular music, contributing lyrics to numerous Broadway shows and hit songs. He formed a highly successful songwriting partnership with Buddy DeSylva and Lew Brown, creating standards like "The Best Things in Life Are Free" and "Button Up Your Overcoat." De Sylva's work significantly shaped the sound of American musical theater and popular song during the 1920s and 30s.