Oscar-winning lyricist Will Jennings, known for his work on iconic songs in popular music and film, has passed away at the age of 80. His passing on September 8, 2024, at his home in Tyler, Texas, was confirmed by his talent agency following several years of deteriorating health. “May his memory be a blessing,” expressed Sam Schwartz of The Gorfaine/Schwartz Agency, Inc.
Jennings is renowned for his work on the Titanic theme “My Heart Will Go On,” performed by Celine Dion, and “Tears in Heaven,” which he co-wrote with Eric Clapton. These songs earned him Academy Awards, adding to his extensive list of accolades, including three Grammy Awards and two Golden Globe Awards.
Born in Kilgore, Texas on June 27, 1944, Jennings initially worked as an English professor before transitioning into full-time songwriting. His extraordinary talent for creating emotionally touching lyrics led to partnerships with several esteemed artists, producing some of the most cherished songs of the past few decades.
Jennings showcased his versatility across his career by writing for a variety of artists such as Steve Winwood, Whitney Houston, B.B. King, Mariah Carey, Jimmy Buffett, Barry Manilow, and Roy Orbison. His collaborations transcended genres and generations, proving his ability to adapt his writing style to match different musical tones.
Jennings first tasted success in 1977 with Barry Manilow’s hit “Looks Like We Made It,” which he co-wrote with composer Richard Kerr. This partnership yielded another top-10 hit for Manilow, “Somewhere in the Night,” two years later.
Jennings’ partnership with Steve Winwood was particularly successful, leading to a string of hit songs and popular albums. Their collaboration began with Winwood’s 1981 album “Arc of a Diver” and continued with “Talking Back to the Night” in 1982, which included the hit “Valerie.” Their collaboration hit a high point with the 1986 album “Back in the High Life,” which featured the Grammy-nominated song “Higher Love.”
In 1982, Jennings earned his first Academy Award for “Up Where We Belong,” a song he co-wrote with Jack Nitzsche and Buffy Sainte-Marie. Performed by Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes, the song was a feature in the film “An Officer and a Gentleman” and topped the charts.
Jennings’ knack for encapsulating raw emotion in his lyrics was perhaps best showcased in his 1991 collaboration with Eric Clapton, “Tears in Heaven.” The song, penned for the movie “Rush,” won Jennings a Grammy Award for Song of the Year and deeply connected with audiences worldwide.
However, it was the 1997 blockbuster “Titanic” that solidified Jennings’ place in music history. The film’s theme, “My Heart Will Go On,” co-written with composer James Horner and performed by Celine Dion, became a global sensation. The song won Jennings his second Academy Award and is considered one of the most frequently played radio hits of all time.
Following the announcement of Jennings’ death, numerous musicians and collaborators paid tribute. Peter Wolf, who worked with Jennings on two albums, described him as a maestro with a brilliant mind and gentle spirit. Wolf further noted that Jennings was a generous collaborator, exhibiting patience and kindness. He remembered Jennings as a cherished friend and mentor who greatly enriched Wolf’s life.
Musician Christopher Cross, who also collaborated with Jennings, referred to the experience as a “master class in lyric writing.” Songwriter Diane Warren admired his work, stating that “the love for your brilliant songs will go on forever.”
Jennings’ contributions to the music industry were formally acknowledged in 2006 when he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, securing his status as one of the most accomplished and celebrated lyricists of his generation.
In addition to his work in popular music, Jennings also played a significant role in film soundtracks. He wrote “Where Are You Christmas?” with James Horner and Mariah Carey for the movie “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” and “One Day I’ll Fly Away,” which featured in the film “Moulin Rouge!”
Jennings is survived by his wife, Carole Elizabeth Thurman, and his two sisters, Joyce and Gloria. He had no children.