Let’s talk about a musical icon, shall we? If you’ve ever heard of Rolling Stone magazine, you’d know they ranked Burt Bacharach as one of the greatest songwriters of all time. This guy didn’t just start out in the music scene; he practically defined it. Since the 1950s, Burt’s career has been nothing short of spectacular, delivering timeless classics like “Walk On By,” “This Guy’s in Love With You,” “I Say a Little Prayer,” “(They Long to Be) Close to You,” and the ever-popular “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head.”
Now, here’s the kicker—Burt, who just turned 93, has earned six Grammys, three Academy Awards, and over a thousand artists have recorded his songs. And guess what? He’s still not done! Broadway Records recently released Burt Bacharach and Steven Sater’s Some Lovers, marking his first original stage score since the 1960s. “This album is truly special,” Burt shares with Closer. “It tells the story of a couple navigating between their past and present. I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve created.”
Growing Up With Music in the Blood
Was music always a part of your life growing up in Kew Gardens, N.Y.?
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Burt’s love for music didn’t just happen overnight. He grew up surrounded by it. “I always had a passion for music. Back in high school, I even formed a little band with some friends. Now, we weren’t exactly pros, but when music is in your blood, you can’t help but follow it,” he recalls with a chuckle.
Charting an Uncertain Path
Did you always know you wanted to become a composer?
“Not at all,” Burt admits. “I had no idea where my journey would take me. But look where I ended up!”
Working with Marlene Dietrich: Lessons Learned
How did you end up arranging and conducting Marlene Dietrich’s nightclub shows?
“It was simple. I needed a job, and the money was good,” Burt says candidly. When asked about Marlene herself, he adds, “Her voice wasn’t exactly what you’d call perfect, but she was incredibly supportive of my work. She believed in me, and that meant everything.”
Did Marlene teach you anything valuable?
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“Absolutely. The most important lesson she taught me was this: If you want something done right, do it yourself. Don’t delegate. Take charge. That’s advice I’ve carried with me throughout my career.”
Trust in the Process
Do you always trust the songs you write? Have there been moments of hesitation?
“Not at all. I’m very methodical about my work. Before releasing anything, I step away from the piano, let the music sit in my head, and live with it for a few days. You see, these pieces are usually around three to four minutes long—not symphonies. I want to make sure every note is perfect. I listen carefully, away from any instruments, to ensure the music holds up.”
A Day in the Life of a Songwriter
Do you write songs every day, or only when you have a project deadline?
“I wish I could say I write every day, but that’s not always the case. However, I’m always thinking creatively, trying to come up with something new.”
A Favorite Among Many Hits
Is there a particular song that stands out as your favorite?
“I think ‘Alfie’ is one of the best songs I’ve ever written. It’s something I’m truly proud of.”
Collaborating with Dionne Warwick
What was it like working with Dionne Warwick on those legendary hits?
“Dionne, Hal David, and I were a fantastic trio. We’d go into the studio, I’d handle the orchestration, and together we’d create magic like ‘Walk On By’ and ‘Anyone Who Had a Heart.’ Dionne’s voice was incredible, and it inspired me to write for her.”
Musical Partnerships That Shaped His Career
Who else have you enjoyed collaborating with?
“Aretha Franklin was a dream to work with. Her musicality was unmatched.”
Family Legacy
Have any of your children followed in your musical footsteps?
“My son Oliver plays in my band during tours. We’ve even traveled through Europe together. It’s been an incredible experience.”
Achievements Worth Celebrating
What are you most proud of in your career?
“Winning three Academy Awards and several Grammys has been amazing, but receiving the Gershwin Award from the Library of Congress, presented by President Barack Obama, was a highlight. It wasn’t for one piece of music but for my entire body of work. That meant the world to me.”
The Future Beckons
What’s left for you to achieve?
“I’d love to live longer and keep creating. The possibilities are endless.”
Do you ever plan to retire?
“Never. Music is my life.”
New Adventures: Some Lovers
Tell us more about your new album, Burt Bacharach and Steven Sater’s Some Lovers.
“Some Lovers is a musical with a plot centered around four characters. Steven Sater, who wrote Spring Awakening, and I have been working on this project for some time now. Although the initial run at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego was well-received for its score, we’ve continued refining the script. We’re optimistic about its future, whether in regional theaters or off-Broadway.”
Looking to the Next Generation
Are there any young artists you’d love to collaborate with?
“John Legend is absolutely brilliant. Who knows what the future holds?”
Life’s Greatest Lesson
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in life?
“Kindness is key. Treat people with respect, and you’ll go far.”
