Mort Shuman

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Mort Shuman (November 12, 1936 - November 2, 1991) was an American singer, pianist and songwriter, best known as co-writer of many 1960s Rock and Roll hits, including "Viva Las Vegas".

[edit] Biography

Shuman was born in Brooklyn, New York and went to Abraham Lincoln High School and then studied music at the New York Conservatory. He became a fan of R&B music and after he met Doc Pomus the two teamed up to compose for Aldon Music at offices in New York City's Brill Building. Their songwriting collaboration saw Pomus write the lyrics and Shuman the music although occasionally they worked on both. Their compositions would be recorded by artists such as Dion, Andy Williams, Bobby Darin, Fabian, The Drifters, and Elvis Presley, among others. Their most famous songs include "A Teenager in Love", "Turn Me Loose", "This Magic Moment", "Save The Last Dance For Me", "Little Sister", "Can't Get Used to Losing You", "His Latest Flame" and "Viva Las Vegas".

Pomus often drew on life events which inspired his creativity. It was after a breakup with his girlfriend that Pomus, who had been driving in his car, was struck in awe by the sounds of the car horns blaring amidst his thoughts. Arriving at the studio, Pomus attempted to assimilate the sound of the horns and penned an introduction to a piece he initially titled A Crowded Avenue. Later, the work progressed with Shuman, who helped finalize the draft. A chorus was added and the name of the song was changed to "Can't Get Used to Losing You", which became one of the biggest hits for Andy Williams in 1965.

With the advent of the British invasion, they moved to London where they penned songs for a number of British musicians. After the partnership with Doc Pomus ended in 1965, Shuman moved to Paris, France where he wrote songs for French rocker Johnny Hallyday and embarked on his own recording career.

In 1968, he translated the French lyrics of Belgian composer Jacques Brel that he would eventually use to write, produce and star in a highly successful off-Broadway production he titled "Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris".

He was elected to the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

He died 10 days before his 55th birthday.