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Bob MerrillAmerican songwriter, theater composer and screenwriter
Date of Birth: 17.05.1921
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Chart-Topping Hits
- Broadway Success
- Other Works
- Awards and Recognition
- Personal Life and Legacy
Early Life and Career
Born Henry Merrill Levan in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Bob Merrill grew up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. After serving in the army during World War II, he moved to Hollywood. Initially working as a dialogue director at Columbia Pictures, Merrill soon turned his attention to songwriting. His early compositions were recorded by artists such as Dorothy Shay.
Chart-Topping Hits
Merrill's first major hit, "If I Knew You Were Comin' I'd've Baked a Cake," was co-written with Al Hoffman and Clem Watts in 1950. It was recorded by Eileen Barton and became a popular song. Other successful songs included "You Don't Have to Be a Baby to Cry" by Moon Mullican, "(How Much Is) That Doggie in the Window?" for Patti Page, and "Mambo Italiano" and "The Kid's Last Fight" for Frankie Laine.
Broadway Success
Making his Broadway debut with the adaptation of Eugene O'Neill's "Anna Christie" in 1957, Merrill achieved great success with "Funny Girl" starring Barbra Streisand. The show's iconic numbers, "People" and "Don't Rain on My Parade," became instant classics.
Other Works
Merrill's other notable Broadway credits include "Take Me Along" (1959), "Carnival!" (1961), "Breakfast at Tiffany's" (1966), "Henry, Sweet Henry" (1967), "Sugar" (1972), and "The Red Shoes" (1993). He also wrote the lyrics for "Prettybelle" starring Angela Lansbury and the music and lyrics for the unsuccessful musical "The Prince of Grand Street."
Awards and Recognition
Despite receiving eight Tony nominations throughout his career, Merrill never won the prestigious award. His song "Funny Girl" earned him Oscar and Golden Globe nominations when the show was adapted for the big screen.
Personal Life and Legacy
In the mid-1990s, Merrill faced health challenges that progressively worsened. On February 17, 1998, he took his own life. Bob Merrill's contributions to music and Broadway left an enduring mark on the entertainment world. His catchy melodies, witty lyrics, and memorable shows continue to be enjoyed by audiences to this day.
