The American songbook is filled with music from composers who defined eras and pushed popular culture to unprecedented heights. Barry Devorzon, rightfully so, has a memorable chapter in this songbook. Born in New York City in 1934, he won multiple Emmys and Grammys for his work as a composer, producer, and industry professional in both popular music and music for films and television. His string of pop hits includes "Just Married" by Marty Robbins, "Dreamin'" by Johnny Burnette, "Shy Girl" by The Cascades, and Dorsey Burnette's "Hey, Little One," "Big Rock Candy Mountain," "Red Roses," and "Noah's Ark." He also co-wrote The Eagles' hit, "In The City," with Joe Walsh.
As a music executive, he signed The Association to his label Valiant and produced their first single–a cover of "One Too Many Mornings," written by Bob Dylan.
As a film composer, Devorzon won a Grammy in 1978 for the tune "Cotton's Dream/Nadia's Theme," a track from the film Bless the Beast and the Children. The tune also became the theme of the soap opera The Young and the Restless and became a top ten hit in the US. He also received an Academy Award nomination for the title track of the same film performed by The Carpenters.
Devorzon continues to write music and has partnered with APM Music via his label Producer's Music Library (PROD).
Listen to our exclusive conversation with the music legend.
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