Steve Allen was an American composer, musician, and television personality known for his contributions to jazz and pop music. His musical style was characterized by his witty lyrics, catchy melodies, and versatile piano playing. As the first host of "The Tonight Show," he significantly influenced the format of late-night TV and popularized the incorporation of music into such programs. Allen composed over 14,000 songs throughout his career, including "This Could Be the Start of Something Big," establishing his importance in American music history.