Alan Bergman, the esteemed American lyricist renowned for his enduring collaboration with his wife, Marilyn, has passed away at the age of 99. Together, they crafted numerous iconic songs that have left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1925, Alan developed a passion for songwriting early in life. He pursued his education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and later earned a master's degree in music from the University of California, Los Angeles. It was during this period that he met Marilyn, leading to a partnership that spanned over six decades.
The Bergmans' songwriting prowess led to collaborations with a diverse array of composers, including Marvin Hamlisch, Quincy Jones, Michel Legrand, and Cy Coleman. Their work resonated with a wide range of artists, from Frank Sinatra and Michael Jackson to Tony Bennett and Barbra Streisand. Notable compositions include "The Way We Were," "The Windmills of Your Mind," and the theme songs for television series such as "Maude" and "Good Times."
Throughout their illustrious career, the Bergmans received numerous accolades, including three Academy Awards, two Grammy Awards, and four Emmy Awards. Their contributions were further recognized with induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1980 and the receipt of the Johnny Mercer Award in 1997.
Alan Bergman is survived by his daughter, Julie, and a granddaughter. A centennial celebration of his life and work is planned at Santa Monica's Broad Stage, featuring performances by artists such as Michael Feinstein, Jackson Browne, and Patti Austin.