Alan Bergman, the Award-Winning Songwriter and Lyricist, Died at 99

Remembering Alan Bergman

Alan Bergman, the brilliant lyricist behind timeless movie songs, passed away at 99. He left a mark on Hollywood and beyond with lyrics that captured deep human emotions.

He spent most of his career working alongside his wife, Marilyn Bergman, writing songs that defined generations. Even if you don’t know his name, you’ve definitely heard his words.

Born to Create

Growing up in Brooklyn, Alan was drawn to music early on and started playing piano as a child. He knew by twelve that songwriting was his true calling.

He studied music at the University of North Carolina and later earned a master’s from UCLA. His passion and education set the stage for a legendary career.

Married in Music and Life

Alan and Marilyn Bergman weren’t just writing partners—they were soulmates. Married in 1958, their bond created a seamless blend of love and lyricism.

They worked side-by-side for decades, penning timeless songs with emotional weight. Their partnership became a gold standard in both Hollywood and real life.

Soundtracking the Silver Screen

Alan’s lyrics played a huge part in shaping unforgettable moments in film. He and Marilyn wrote for classic movies like Yentl, The Way We Were, and Tootsie.

When actors delivered lines, he gave them something just as powerful to sing. Their songs didn’t just support the story—they helped define it.

Writing Through the Years

Alan Bergman wrote his very first song at just thirteen and never really stopped. Even after losing Marilyn, he kept the music going into his nineties.

One of his later works, Wherever I May Go (for Marilyn), was a loving tribute to his late wife. It proved that his heart—and pen—never ran out of things to say.

From “Yellow Bird” to Big Breaks

The Bergmans’ first real payday came with Yellow Bird, but it was Nice ‘n’ Easy with Frank Sinatra that launched them. Sinatra, who fondly called them “the kids,” quickly became a close friend.

Their next breakthrough arrived in 1967 when they teamed up with Quincy Jones. Together, they created In the Heat of the Night for the movie of the same name.

Teamwork in Harmony

Alan once compared his and Marilyn’s writing process to a baseball game—tossing ideas back and forth like a pitcher and catcher. He believed true magic happened when the melody came first.

Composers often dropped off their music, trusting the Bergmans to match it with just the right words. “Words are at the tips of those notes,” Alan told NPR in 2011.

Voices That Carried His Words

His lyrics were brought to life by legends like Barbra Streisand, Frank Sinatra, and Tony Bennett. These performers knew how to let his words shine.

They didn’t just sing his songs—they lived them, turning each one into an emotional performance. Alan gave them something real to say, and they delivered it with soul.

The Quincy Jones Era

Their breakthrough came with “In the Heat of the Night,” sung by Ray Charles and scored by Quincy Jones. The 1967 hit marked a turning point in their film career.

The Bergmans later reunited with Jones for “John and Mary” and “The Getaway.” These collaborations helped solidify their place in Hollywood’s music elite.

Oscar Gold and Grammy Glory

In 1969, the Bergmans scored their first Academy Award win with The Windmills of Your Mind from The Thomas Crown Affair, alongside Michel Legrand.

Their magic struck again with The Way We Were in 1974, earning another Oscar with Marvin Hamlisch. The song also won the Grammy for Song of the Year in 1975, sealing their legacy in gold.

Small Screen Successes

The Bergmans also left their mark on television. They earned Emmys for Queen of the Stardust Ballroom (1975) and Sybil (1977).

Their lyrical genius returned in 1995 with Ordinary Miracles from Barbra: The Concert, adding another Emmy to their shelf. Their magic touched screens big and small with equal brilliance.

A Love for the Craft and Each Other

Alan once said they had a true passion and joy for writing. He and Marilyn wrote every single day, driven by love for the work.

He believed doing what you love with someone you love makes everything better. Their bond wasn’t just romantic—it was the heart of their creative magic.

His Final Hours

Alan Bergman passed away late Thursday night at his Los Angeles home, according to family spokesperson. His daughter, Julie Bergman, was right by his side when he took his last breath.

He revealed Alan had been battling respiratory issues for months, but never stopped writing. Even in decline, he stayed true to his craft until the very end.

Tributes from the Stars

When news of his passing broke, tributes poured in from every corner of the entertainment world. Barbra Streisand called him “family, a father figure,” a voice of poetic depth.

“At 99 his creative gifts still flowed. I like to think he’s again in Marilyn’s warm embrace and I’m sure they have started collaborating again on another song! I will miss them both.” Barbra wrote in her emotional note for Alan.

A Legacy of Lyrics and Legends

The Bergmans’ songs shaped the golden age of film music, spanning the second half of the 20th century. Their clever, emotional wordplay stood out in every line they wrote.

They worked with top composers like Quincy Jones, John Williams, and Michel Legrand. Together, they created lyrics that weren’t just sung—they were felt.

As the world remembers Alan’s legacy, fans are also remembering fellow icon Bobby Sherman—another star whose impact went far beyond the stage.

A Milestone Turns Tribute

Alan Bergman’s 100th birthday bash on Sept. 11 at the Broad Stage will still happen. What was once a celebration now honors a lifetime of musical magic.

Stars like Seth MacFarlane, Michael Feinstein, Dave Grusin, and Jackson Browne will attend. It’s now a heartfelt tribute to the Bergmans’ incredible legacy.

In another news, Lalo Schifrin, the legendary composer behind the ‘Mission: Impossible’ theme, has passed away at 93—discover how his iconic music shaped Hollywood.

Pay tribute to Alan Bergman’s timeless legacy — give this a like if his songs touched your heart, and share your favorite Bergman lyric in the comments below.

Read More From This Brand:

• Anne Burrell dies at 55 Tributes pour in for the fiery star
• MTV star Ananda Lewis dies at 52
• Betsy Gay, ‘Little Rascals’ actress, dies at 96

Don’t forget to follow us for more exclusive content right here on MSN.

If you liked this story, you’ll LOVE our FREE emails. Join today and be the first to get stories like this one.

This slideshow was made with AI assistance and with human editing.