Dooley Wilson (1894, 1966) was an American actor, singer, and pianist who became iconic for his role in the 1942 film Casablanca, where he performed "As Time Goes By" at the piano. Though his film career was limited by the racial barriers of Hollywood's era, his warm baritone and skilled accompaniment made him a memorable interpreter of American standards.
Wilson's approach to this song exemplified the intimate, conversational style that defined the Great American Songbook. His version remains the definitive recording, shaping how generations of musicians understand this timeless classic.