Remembering the man who sang the best love songs of all time: Rest in peace, Burt Bacharach.
Burt Bacharach, one of the most famous composers of 20th-century pop music, passed away at the age of 94. His publicist revealed that he died of natural causes due to old age.
Bacharach’s songs have left an indelible mark on different eras, from the 50s through the 80s. Not only did he create iconic movie soundtrack songs, but he also propelled many music stars to the top of the charts. With over 50 chart hits in the US and UK, Bacharach collaborated with artists such as Warwick, Sinatra, The Beatles, Streisand, Jones, Franklin, and Costello, among others.
Bacharach’s most notable collaborator was lyricist Hal David. Together, they created enduring hits like “What the World Needs Now Is Love,” “I Say a Little Prayer,” “Walk on By,” “Alfie,” “What’s New Pussycat?,” and many more. The list is endless.
In 2008, Bacharach received the lifetime achievement Grammy, earning the title of music’s “greatest living composer.” In addition to this prestigious award, he won three Oscars, two Golden Globes, and five more Grammy awards. Bacharach’s innovative and versatile approach to various art forms set him apart as a truly remarkable talent.
While Bacharach was married four times in his life, his deepest connection was with the creation of music. He was entirely devoted to his craft and found immense joy in composing and performing.
Born in Kansas City, Missouri, Bacharach grew up in Kew Gardens, New York. His interest in music, particularly jazz, emerged at a young age. Many considered his music to be “easy listening” and reminiscent of an old-fashioned style. His buoyant pop songs and smooth, jazzy instrumentals defined the 1960s and can be heard in popular TV shows like Mad Men and Austin Powers. Bacharach even made memorable appearances in the Austin Powers film franchise, performing alongside Elvis Costello.
The song, “The Look of Love,” had a profound impact on the creation of the character Austin Powers. According to Entertainment Weekly, Mike Myers was inspired by the song while driving home from hockey practice. Bacharach’s music stirred the concept of the suave spy in Myers’ mind, leading to the creation of the iconic film series.
Speaking of Bacharach, Costello remarked in a 2018 interview with The Associated Press, “The shorthand version of [Bacharach] is that he’s something to do with easy listening. It may be agreeable to listen to these songs, but there’s nothing easy about them. Try playing them. Try singing them.”
While composing some of his most unforgettable songs, Bacharach endured deep personal grief. After four failed marriages, he tragically lost his 40-year-old autistic daughter to suicide. She had struggled with undiagnosed Asperger’s syndrome for thirty years. The pain of these experiences seeped into Bacharach’s soul, profoundly influencing his music.
Rest in peace, Burt Bacharach. Your songs will live on forever.
