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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Jacob Stolworthy

Burt Bacharach death: Legendary composer dies, aged 94

Independent

Composer Burt Bacharach has died, aged 94.

The legendary composer was known for his orchestral pop style featured in hits including “I Say a Little Prayer”.

His publicist said the musician died on Wednesday (8 February) at his home in Los Angeles.

Bacharach died of natural causes.

The pianist was a six-time Grammy Award winner, and won three Oscars for his music in films Arthur and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

His other famous soundtracks include Michael Caine film Alfie and What’s New Pussycat.

Bacharach was a prolific composer who, alongside lyricist Hal David, wrote music artists ranging from Dionne Warwick and Dusty Springfield to Cilla Black and Tom Jones.

Their music was also perfromed by The Beatles, Elvis Presley and The Carpenters.

Some of Bacharach’s most recognisable songs include “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head“ (1969), “(They Long to Be) Close to You“ (1970) and “That’s What Friends Are For“ (1986).

Bacharach, who was born in Kansas City, Missouri, grew up listening to musicians Dizzy Gillespie and Count Basie, who influenced his compositions.

He was drafted into the United States Army in 1950, and while serving for two years, he played piano in officers’ clubs in Germany.

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