Remembering Alan Bergman: Celebrated Oscar-Winning Songwriter of ‘The Way We Were’ Passes Away at 99

Alan Bergman, the celebrated lyricist, passed away at his home in Los Angeles. He lived to be 99 years old. Known for his incredible partnership with his wife, Marilyn Bergman, their collaboration lasted over six decades. Together, they crafted memorable songs like “The Windmills of Your Mind,” “The Way We Were,” and “In the Heat of the Night.”

Marilyn, who passed away in January 2022, was a trailblazer in the music industry. She became the first female president of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), a key group for music rights. Even after Marilyn’s death, Alan continued to write, showcasing their deep bond through music.

The Bergmans wrote hundreds of songs that blended the classic Great American Songbook with modern pop. Their work helped define film music from the ’60s to the ’80s, making them favorites among top directors like Sydney Pollack and Norman Jewison. Their poetic lyrics and engaging melodies left a significant mark on cinema.

Take “Windmills of Your Mind,” for instance. It’s recognized as a classic with its swirling imagery and profound themes. Similarly, “The Way We Were” resonates with anyone who reflects on their past, while “In the Heat of the Night” overcame boundaries, surprising even Ray Charles with its depth and nuance.

The duo collaborated with renowned composers such as Michel Legrand and Marvin Hamlisch. Their clever lyrics and meaningful storytelling are part of what made them so successful. The Bergmans secured three Academy Awards, including one for “Windmills” in 1968 and another for the title song from “The Way We Were” in 1973.

Statistics show that their work accounted for a significant portion of great movie songs during the late 20th century. They received 13 additional Oscar nominations and won four Grammy Awards, a testament to their lasting influence in music.

Their talents also shone on television. They wrote memorable themes for shows like “Maude” and “Good Times.” They earned Emmy Awards for works like the musical “Queen of the Stardust Ballroom,” which even made its way to Broadway.

Alan Bergman’s journey began in North Carolina, where he studied at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earning a master’s degree at UCLA. He was mentored by legendary lyricist Johnny Mercer, which laid the foundation for his future success.

Alan and Marilyn married in 1958 and formed a unique writing partnership. They shared a love for music, collaborating seamlessly. “One of us creates, and the other edits,” Alan once explained. This balance allowed them to produce quality work consistently.

Their big break came with “In the Heat of the Night” in 1967, working alongside Quincy Jones. Additional projects with other notable composers followed. Their songs have been performed by some of the biggest names in music, including Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand, and Tony Bennett.

In 1980, they were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Their accolades include a lifetime achievement award from the National Academy of Songwriters and multiple Grammy nominations.

Alan is survived by his daughter, Julie, and granddaughter. A celebration of his life, coinciding with his 100th birthday, will honor his extraordinary contributions to music.

The Bergmans’ legacy is not just in their awards but in the memories their songs create. Their work continues to inspire both artists and fans alike. Their unique ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with beautiful melodies ensures that their songs will be cherished for generations to come.

For deeper insights into the impact of their music, you can explore this report from ASCAP on the evolving landscape of songwriting and the influence of iconic partnerships.

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Alan Bergman,Marilyn Bergman