Alan Bergman, the renowned lyricist, passed away on July 17 at the age of 99. He was widely celebrated for his collaborations with his wife, Marilyn Bergman, who died in 2022. Together, they crafted a legacy of hundreds of songs, including classics such as “The Way We Were,” “Papa, Can You Hear Me?” from Yentl, and the theme song for Good Times. They frequently collaborated with famous artists, including Barbra Streisand, and garnered numerous accolades, including four Emmys, two Grammys, and three Oscars.
Bergman died at his home in Los Angeles, with his daughter Julie by his side. A spokesperson indicated that he had recently been struggling with respiratory issues but had continued to write music right up until his passing.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1925, Alan showed an early passion for music, taking piano lessons as a child. After following a diverse path that included studying at the University of North Carolina and working in television, he turned his full attention to songwriting. His career took off in Los Angeles, where he teamed up with his future wife, Marilyn, and fellow songwriter Lew Spence. Their first collaboration was a song they wrote together early in their relationship, which blossomed into a lifelong partnership, both personally and professionally.
The couple faced many challenges, including early setbacks in their careers, but gained recognition for their work on projects like “In the Heat of the Night,” which featured music by Quincy Jones, and the Oscar-winning song “The Windmills of Your Mind” from The Thomas Crown Affair. Their crowning achievement, “The Way We Were,” was notably honored with an Academy Award and a Grammy for Song of the Year.
Throughout their successful careers, the Bergmans showcased a unique ability to channel deep emotions into their writing, producing songs that resonated with audiences despite often contemplating heavier themes. Alan noted the joy of creating music, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that defined their relationship.
Even after Marilyn’s death, Alan continued to pursue songwriting, recalling how their dynamic working relationship fueled their creativity. He is survived by daughter Julie and granddaughter Emily Sender, who embodies a continued legacy of growth and exploration in her own field of global food studies.
With Alan’s passing, the music industry loses a luminary whose heartfelt lyrics and collaborations enriched the cultural landscape. His dedication to his craft until his final days serves as an inspiring testament to his passion and creativity.