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Glen BallardMusician, composer and producer
Date of Birth: 01.05.1953
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Biography of Glen Ballard
- Education and Career
- Rise to Prominence
- Continued Success and Humanitarian Work
- Legacy and Achievements
Biography of Glen Ballard
Early Life and Musical BeginningsGlen Ballard, the renowned American songwriter, musician, and producer, was born on May 1, 1953, in Natchez, Mississippi. From a young age, Ballard was passionate about music, starting with playing guitar and writing lyrics for his songs at the age of ten. His songwriting skills were versatile, enabling him to create music in various genres, including rock-n-roll, blues, and jazz, inspired by artists such as Jerry Lee Lewis, Irma Thomas, and Al Green.
Education and Career
After completing his studies in English, journalism, and politics, Ballard had the opportunity to become a teacher. However, he made the firm decision to pursue a career as a songwriter. In 1975, Ballard joined Elton John's team in Los Angeles, starting from the bottom and eventually playing the piano and composing the song "One Step" for the singer, which became his first successful single.
Throughout the 1980s, Ballard's songwriting career flourished, with hits for George Benson, Quincy Jones, and many other renowned artists. His talent caught the attention of Quincy Jones, who took him under his wing and introduced him to influential circles in the industry. Ballard's composition "Try Your Love Again" was featured on James Ingram's debut album "It's Your Night" in 1983, which achieved gold status. He continued writing songs for artists like Patti Austin and Jack Wagner, with his single "All I Need" by Wagner reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100.
Rise to Prominence
Ballard became a sought-after songwriter and decided to pursue a solo career, independent of producers. His super-hit "You Look So Good in Love," performed by George Strait, topped the charts throughout 1983 and remains one of the most popular songs of the year. In the same year, he wrote "Man in the Mirror" for Michael Jackson's album "Bad," which became another iconic hit.
In 1989, Ballard formed the trio "Planet 3" with his long-time partner Cliff Magnes and guitarist/vocalist Jay Graydon. The group enjoyed success with songs like "I Don't Want to Say Goodnight" but faced challenges with record labels, leading to their disbandment in 1991. However, Ballard's and Graydon's songs from the unreleased album found their way onto Magnes's solo debut album "Solo" in 1994.
Continued Success and Humanitarian Work
Ballard's collaboration with Toto in 1995 resulted in writing two songs for the band, along with Steve Lukather and David Paich. He also worked with composer Alan Silvestri on the song "Believe" for the animated film "The Polar Express" in 2004, performed by Josh Groban. The song received numerous awards, including a Grammy for Best Song from a Motion Picture.
Throughout his career, Ballard has written songs for various popular artists and soundtracks, earning him the title of a musical chameleon. Currently, he collaborates with David Stewart of Eurythmics at their recording studio in Hollywood. Additionally, Ballard actively engages in humanitarian missions for Greenpeace and other public organizations.
Legacy and Achievements
Glen Ballard's exceptional musical talent has earned him five Grammy Awards and his record sales have surpassed 150 million worldwide. His collaborations with numerous celebrities have transformed unknown singers into global stars. Ballard's career is a true fairytale, filled with shining stars in the music industry. Over the course of two decades, he has reached incredible heights, evolving from a small recording studio to owning his own company.
