Burt Bacharach, one of the greatest composers in pop music history, has passed away at the age of 94. His timeless hits, such as “I Say A Little Prayer,” “Walk On By,” and “What The World Needs Now Is Love,” have left an indelible mark on music lovers around the world. Along with lyricist Hal David, Bacharach wrote numerous movie themes including “What’s New Pussycat?,” “Alfie,” and “The Look Of Love” – a major hit for Dusty Springfield. The songwriter died at home in Los Angeles of natural causes, according to his publicist Tina Brausam
A Legacy in Music
Bacharach was known for his soaring melodies and luxurious orchestral arrangements, and his contributions to music have earned him a place as one of the most important songwriters of the 20th century. Over his illustrious career, he scored more than 50 chart hits in both the US and UK, with artists such as Dionne Warwick, Frank Sinatra, The Beatles, Barbra Streisand, Tom Jones, Aretha Franklin, and Elvis Costello all recording his songs.
Memorable Hits
Some of Burt Bacharach’s most popular songs include:
- “Magic Moments” – Perry Como
- “I Say A Little Prayer” – Aretha Franklin
- “I’ll Never Fall In Love Again” – Dionne Warwick
- “The Look of Love” – Dionne Warwick
- “Close To You” – The Carpenters
- “Alfie” – Dionne Warwick
- “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head” – BJ Thomas
- “24 Hours From Tulsa” – Gene Pitney
- “Make It Easy on Yourself” – The Walker Brothers
- “I Just Don’t Know What to Do With Myself” – Dusty Springfield
- “Alfie” – Cilla Black
- “What’s New, Pussycat?” – Tom Jones
- “Arthur’s Theme” – Christopher Cross
- “Anyone Who Had A Heart” – Dionne Warwick/Cilla Black
Award-Winning Composer
Bacharach’s contributions to the world of music were recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including three Oscars, two Golden Globes, and six Grammy Awards. In 2008, he was honored with a lifetime achievement Grammy, and was referred to as “music’s greatest living composer.”
Tributes from the Music Industry
Dionne Warwick, one of Bacharach’s frequent collaborators, said that his death felt like “losing a family member.” Many other musicians and songwriters shared their thoughts on the loss of the legendary composer. Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys referred to him as a “hero” and a “giant in the music business,” while former Oasis star Noel Gallagher simply wrote “RIP Maestro. It was a pleasure to have known you.” Oscar-winning songwriter Diane Warren referred to him as “our Beethoven,” and film and TV composer David Arnold agreed that he was “one of the greatest songwriters of all time.”
Burt Bacharach’s passing marks the end of an era in pop music, but his timeless melodies and intricate arrangements will continue to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers to come.
