POP/ROCK - May 11, 1987

Songwriter Irving Berlin, who has outlived the copyright on some of his most popular works, including “Alexander’s Ragtime Band,” celebrates his 99th birthday today with a family party in New York. Mayor Ed Koch is also giving a party marking Berlin’s birthday at Gracie Mansion, even though the reclusive composer-lyricist will not attend. The party will launch a record album of Berlin songs by cabaret singer Michael Feinstein. Berlin is said to be in generally good health and still visits the Irving Berlin Music Corp.’s midtown Manhattan office.