WILLY WONKA Songwriter Leslie Bricusse Dies at 90
BREAKING NEWS: It has just been announced that celebrated acclaimed composer, lyricist, and playwright Leslie Bricusse sadly passed away today at the age of 90. This 2 time Oscar winner and 5 time Tony nominee was best known for this unforgettable works in BOTH on Broadway and on the big screen.
His notable works included….
Victor Victoria – collaborating with the late Henri Mancini for the film and later Frank Wildhorn with the stage adaptation (notable songs include LE JAZ HOT),
The 1967 film (which later became a musical) Doctor Dolittle – which he collaborated with Lionel Newman and Alexander Courage (notable songs include IF I CAN TALK TO THE ANIMALS),
the 1961 musical STOP THE WORLD – I WANT TO GET OFF – the first of many collaborations with Anthony Newly),
Jekyll & Hyde – collaborating with Wildhorn (notable songs include THIS IS THE MOMENT, SOMEONE LIKE YOU, and A NEW LIFE),
several James Bond films including GOLDFINGER and YOU ONLY LIVE TWICE,
his works with Sammy Davis Jr. – including the Grammy winning standard WHAT KIND OF FOOL AM I.
and
of course his beloved score from Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory – collaborating with Newly on many of its popular tunes that would be used in the recent Broadway musical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (including THE CANDY MAN, I GOT A GOLDEN TICKET, and PURE IMAGINATION).
Our hearts are sadden by this loss. Thank you for your unforgettable talents. We will miss you. RIP
Thoughts?
Mike Haber
Author: Mike Haber