Alan Bergman, Oscar, Grammy and Emmy-Winning Songwriter, Dies at 99

Renowned Songwriter Alan Bergman Passes Away at 99

Alan Bergman, an acclaimed songwriter who was known for his collaborations with his wife Marilyn, has sadly passed away at the age of 99. Alan, along with Marilyn, crafted numerous iconic songs, including the classics “The Way We Were,” “Papa, Can You Hear Me?” from the movie Yentl, and the theme song from Good Times. The pair frequently worked alongside the legendary Barbra Streisand and collectively garnered four Emmys, two Grammys, and three Oscars. Alan breathed his last on July 17 at his residence in Los Angeles, with his daughter Julie Bergman at his side.

Throughout his life, Alan Bergman remained dedicated to his craft, continuing to write songs until his final days despite battling respiratory issues in recent months. Alan, born in Brooklyn, N.Y., in 1925, had a passion for songwriting that ignited at a young age. His journey into the world of music began when, as a child, he received automatic piano lessons, sparking his love for melodies that played on the radio. The influence of big bands and their enchanting tunes moulded his creative spirit, propelling him towards a career in songwriting.

After completing his education at the University of North Carolina, Alan ventured into the realm of television, where he found himself directing baseball games and musical shows. It was during this time that he crossed paths with songwriter Johnny Mercer, who encouraged him to return to Los Angeles to pursue his songwriting aspirations. In L.A., Alan teamed up with composer Lew Spence, setting the stage for a fateful encounter with Marilyn, who was also a budding writer. The trio’s collaboration blossomed, leading to the creation of their first song together.

Alan and Marilyn’s professional partnership evolved into a personal one, culminating in their marriage in 1958 and the birth of their daughter Julie in 1960. As a child, Julie amusingly described her parents’ occupation as a daily ritual of songwriting sessions intermingled with moments of creative inspiration. The couple’s early works included children’s songs, nightclub performances, and collaborations with renowned artists like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.

The Bergmans’ breakthrough came with the chart-topping hit “Yellow Bird,” followed by a series of successful compositions for stage and screen. Their partnership with Barbra Streisand resulted in timeless classics such as “The Way We Were,” which garnered critical acclaim and accolades including an Oscar and a Grammy. Despite the often melancholic themes of their songs, Alan and Marilyn embraced the creative process with joy and openness, fostering a collaborative spirit that defined their musical legacy.

Over the years, the Bergmans continued to captivate audiences with their lyrical prowess, receiving accolades ranging from Emmys to Grammys and even induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Their enduring contributions to the world of music have left an indelible mark, resonating with listeners across generations. Alan’s passion for songwriting remained undimmed even after Marilyn’s passing, reflecting his unwavering dedication to his craft.

Alan Bergman’s legacy lives on through his daughter Julie Bergman, an accomplished writer and film producer, and granddaughter Emily Sender, who recently completed her studies in global food studies. As the music world mourns the loss of a true maestro, Alan’s songs continue to inspire and uplift, ensuring that his spirit endures through the timeless melodies he created.