To many people, she was the personification of the 20th Century Broadway musical. But Ethel Merman's view of her ability to knock 'em dead every time was quite down to earth – "What's so remarkable about that? It's my job, isn't it?" Job or not, when she planted herself center stage and belted notes out to the balcony, audiences and critics acclaimed her as the undisputed First Lady of the musical comedy stage.

Thanks to a few effective film roles, Merman's name is still remembered today, but her legend was built and maintained on the Broadway stage. With far too little material on the internet discussing her career, Musicals101.com is delighted to present this tribute to the life of "The Merm."

John Kenrick
Webmaster - Musicals101.com