Vincent Youmans (1898–1946) was a prominent American composer and songwriter, primarily known for his contributions to the musical theater genre during the early 20th century. He was a key figure in the development of the American musical, blending elements of jazz and popular music into his works. Some of Youmans' most notable compositions include songs from the musicals "No, No, Nanette" (1925), which features the famous tune "Tea for Two," and "Hit the Deck" (1927). His other significant works include "Great Day" (1929) and "Roberta" (1933), the latter of which introduced the classic "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes." Youmans' impact on music lies in his ability to craft memorable melodies and his pioneering integration of jazz influences into Broadway scores. His work helped to bridge the gap between traditional vaudeville and the modern musical, influencing subsequent generations of composers and songwriters. Despite a relatively short career, Youmans' contributions to American music have left a lasting legacy, particularly in the realm of classic Broadway standards.