Burt Bacharach is the epitome of groovy sixties jazz-pop songwriting. Along with lyricist Hal David, he wrote some of the springiest, Pop-iest hits of the era; “Walk On By,” “ I Say a Little Prayer,” “Do You Know the Way to San Jose?” and “Anyone Who Had a Heart” are a few of the hits they wrote and that was just for their muse, Dionne Warwick. They also wrote other hits such as “Raindrops Are Falling On My Head,” “Wishin’ and Hopin’,” “The Look of Love,” “Alfie,” “What’s New, Pussycat?” “Close to You” and many, many others. Bacharach’s style was totally unique and his melodies bear his unmistakable stamp.
Along with being married for a time to “Police Woman” Angie Dickinson (a rather groovy person herself,) he toured the world as musical arranger and accompanist for screen siren Marlene Dietrich’s cabaret show in the late fifties.
Happily, Bacharach is still active today although, sadly, Hal David passed away in 2012.
In 1968, the two wrote their only Broadway musical, “Promises, Promises,” based on the 1960 film “The Apartment.” This groovy holiday clip, (Turkey Lurkey Time) is from that musical.
Just look at these folks. Aren’t they having fun? You do the same.
Have a groovy weekend!
Groovy Friday Extra!
Here’s Bacharach’s supremely groovy theme from the sixties film version of “Casino Royale” played by Groovy Friday alumni Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass.
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