Jack Lawrence, one of the great lyricists of the Songbook Era, passed away six days ago in Redding, Connecticut at the age of 96, after suffering a fall in his home.
A member of ASCAP since he published his first song at the age of 20, Lawrence became known for co-writing songs that helped kick off careers. Shortly after serving in the Merchant Marine during World War II, he wrote "Yes, My Darling Daughter", which became the first hit record for a young Dinah Shore. He also wrote the words for "If I Didn't Care", the song that introduced The Ink Spots, as well as "All or Nothing At All", boy singer Frank Sinatra's first recording with the Harry James Orchestra.
Lawrence also composed the lyrics to "Tenderly", the trademark song of Rosemary Clooney, as well as the English lyrics to "Beyond the Sea", which became Bobby Darin's signature song. He was nominated for an Oscar in 1954 for the song "Hold My Hand" from the movie Susan Slept Here.
Rest in Peace, Mr. Lawrence.
If I Didnt Care - The Ink spots
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"One of my very favorite music blogs ever..." - Singer/Songwriter Emma Wallace
"Fascinating... really GREAT!!! You'll learn things about those tunes we all LOVE to play and blow on... SOD is required reading for my advanced students. It's fun, too!" - Nick Mondello of AllAboutJazz.com
"I never let a day go by without checking it." - Bob Madison of Dinoship.com
"I had dinner the other night with some former WNEW staff members who spoke very highly of your work." - Joe Fay
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