Andy Razaf (1895-1973), (born Andriamanantena Paul Razafinkarefo also Razafkeriefo) African American composer, poet, and lyricist for such well-known songs as "Ain't Misbehavin'" and "Honeysuckle Rose". Born in Washington, D.C. December 16, 1895, the son of Henry Razafkeriefo a Malagasy nobleman and Jennie (Waller) Razafkeriefo the daughter of John L. Waller, the first African American consul to Madagascar. He was the nephew of Queen Ranavalona III of Madagascar.

Raised in Harlem, he collaborated with Fats Waller (his cousin on his mother's side of their family) and other Tin Pan Alley musicians as well as Benny Goodman, Eubie Blake and others. He was a contributor and editor of the UNIA's Negro World newspaper.

Songs

"Baltimo", composed at the age of 17, was sung by members of "The Passing Show of 1913" at Winter Garden, New York.

" "Ain't Misbehavin'"
" "Honeysuckle Rose"
" "In the Mood"
" "Black and Blue"
" "Stompin' at the Savoy"
" "Garvey! Hats Off to Garvey"
" "U.N.I.A."

Poems

" "Wired, Hired, Fired", an expression of grief and sorrow that color bars one fitted to position;
" "Jack Johnson", touching on defeat with honor;

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