Photo Courtesy of Toovia
Gerry Goffin, co-writer writer of 59 Top 40 hits and 7 number one singles died yesterday of natural causes in his Los Angeles home. The 75 year old songwriter’s death was reported by his wife Michelle. Goffin had been known for his many successful collaborations with ex-wife and folk singer Carole King (pictured above). Together the two forged enduring hits such as “Will You Love Me Tomorrow”, “Take Good Care of My Baby”, “Some Kind of Wonderful”, “The Locomotion”, “One Fine Day”, and many more.
Goffin and King’s story was the focus in this year’s Tony-winning Broadway musical Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. The musical chronicles King and Goffin’s rise to fame as their marriage deteriorates due to Goffin’s instability and infidelity. The musical was honored with seven nominations, winning two of them including Best Actress for Jessie Mueller’s portrayal of King.
Gerry Goffin was my first love,” Carole King said in a statement issued shortly after the announcement of Goffin’s death. “He had a profound impact on my life and the rest of the world. Gerry was a good man and a dynamic force, whose words and creative influence will resonate for generations to come. His legacy to me is our two daughters, four grandchildren, and our songs that have touched millions and millions of people, as well as a lifelong friendship. He will be missed by his wonderful wife Michele, his devoted manager, Christine Russell, his five children, and six grandchildren.
“His words expressed what so many people were feeling but didn’t know how to say,” she continued. “If you want to join his loved ones in honoring him, look at the names of the songwriters under the titles of songs. Among the titles associated with me, you’ll often find Gerry’s name next to mine.”
Goffin collaborated with many other songwriters in his career as well, notably with Michael Masser for “Do You Know Where You’re Going To” and Jack Keller for “Run to Him”. Goffin was one of the first to take notice of future American Idol champion Kelly Clarkson when he hired her to do demo work seven years prior to her appearance on the show.