One of the true giants of the music business, Jerry Lieber, has passed (along with another giant songwriter, Nick Ashford. See below post).
One of the truly poetic lyricists, Lieber had a way of conveying some of the strongest seemingly intangible emotions into his songs ("Stand By Me" and "Spanish Harlem") and also showed a wicked sense of humor in his work for the Coasters. When the names Lieber-Stoller appear on the label, it's a stamp of quality.
On today's entry, Lieber and Stoller are joined by two other giants- Bert Berns and Ahmet Ertegun (under his 'Nugetre" pseudonym), for another fantastic example of Lieber's pure poetry. Ben E. King also proved to be the perfect foil to deliver these lyrics, both solo and with the Drifters.
Thanks for all the incredible songs, Mr. Lieber. The world is a far better place thanks to you.
from 1963...
BEN E. KING - GYPSY
3 comments:
Very well said. Spanish Harlem is such a beautiful thing.
"It's growing in the street
right up through the concrete
But soft and sweet and dreamin'"
Godspeed Jerry Lieber and thank you.
Swedish issue?
yes, Swedish issue with beautiful picture sleeve. Purchased by me in Oslo, Norway.
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