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Sonny Curtis, ‘Mary Tyler Moore’ Theme and Buddy Holly Collaborator, Dies at 88
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Sonny Curtis, a prolific singer and songwriter best known for penning the iconic theme song too The Mary Tyler Moore Show
and early work with buddy Holly, died on September 17, 2023, at the age of eighty-eight. His passing marks the end of an era for American popular music.
CurtisS career spanned decades, beginning in the 1950s with the Crickets, Buddy Holly’s backing band. He replaced guitarist Niki Sullivan in the group and toured with Holly until the singer’s tragic death in 1959.
Early career and The Crickets
Born Harvey Curtis Smith in 1935, he adopted the stage name Sonny Curtis. He joined the Crickets in 1958, contributing to their sound and touring extensively. Following Holly’s death, Curtis continued with The Crickets, navigating the challenges of maintaining the band’s legacy.
Did You Know?
Sonny Curtis initially wrote the melody for Love is All Around
– later the theme for The Mary Tyler Moore Show
– as a song about his wife.
Songwriting Success
Beyond his work with The Crickets, Curtis established himself as a highly sought-after songwriter. He penned numerous hits, including I fought the Law
, famously covered by The Bobby Fuller Four, and Walk Right Back
, a success for The Everly Brothers. He wrote hundreds of songs throughout his career.
His most enduring composition, however, remains the theme song for The Mary Tyler Moore Show
. The upbeat and optimistic tune, Love is All Around
, perfectly captured the show’s spirit and became a cultural touchstone.
Later Years and Legacy
Curtis continued to write and perform throughout his life, remaining a respected figure in the music industry. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Crickets in 2012. his songs continue to be enjoyed by generations of listeners.
Pro Tip: explore the discographies of The Crickets and The everly Brothers to discover more of Sonny Curtis’s songwriting contributions.
| Milestone | Year |
|---|---|
| Joins The Crickets | 1958 |
| Buddy Holly’s Death | 1959 |
| Writes “I Fought the Law” | 1960 |
| Writes “Walk Right Back” | 1961 |
| Writes ”Love is All Around” (Mary Tyler Moore Theme) | 1970 |
| Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction (with The Crickets) | 2012 |
| Death | 2023 |
-Associated Press
Sonny Curtis’s music provided a soundtrack to countless lives. His talent and contributions to American music will be deeply missed.
What is your favorite song written by Sonny Curtis? How did his music impact your life?
The Enduring Appeal of Classic Songwriting
Sonny Curtis’s success highlights the lasting power of well-crafted songs. His ability to connect with audiences through relatable themes and memorable melodies ensured his work remained relevant across decades. The influence of songwriters like Curtis continues to inspire contemporary artists.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sonny curtis
- what songs did Sonny Curtis write
