Ben Ryan (composer)

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Ben Ryan, born Bennett A. Ryan (March 30, 1892 – July 5, 1968), was an American songwriter and entertainer who performed under the stage name Beethoven Ben. He wrote the music and lyrics for the popular song "(The Gang that Sang) Heart of My Heart" and many other songs such as "Inka Dinka Doo," "M-I-S-S-I-S-S-I-P-P-I," "No Nothing," "The Thrill of a New Romance," "When Frances Dances with Me," and "When I Send You a Picture of Berlin."

Ryan was from Kansas City, Missouri. He worked as a vaudeville performer, film actor, and screenwriter. From 1914 to 1925, he partnered with Harriet Lee in the comedy and singing-dancing duo "Ryan & Lee," which included the hit "Won and One is Two." He died after a lengthy illness at his home in Leonia, New Jersey, on July 5, 1968.