Ben Ryan (composer)

Bennett A. "Ben" Ryan (March 30, 1892 – July 5, 1968) was an American songwriter who wrote the music and lyrics to the popular song (The Gang that Sang) Heart of My Heart. He also wrote or co-wrote many other popular songs including Inka Dinka Doo, M-I-S-S-I-S-S-I-P-P-I, No Nothing, Plus Je T'Embrasse, The Thrill of a New Romance, When Francis Dances With Me, and When I Send You a Picture of Berlin.

Born in Kansas City, Missouri, Ryan was also a vaudeville performer, film actor and screen writer. Following a lengthy illness, on July 5, 1968, he died at his home in Leonia, New Jersey.