Jay Livingston, born Jacob Harold Levison, was an influential American composer whose work left a lasting mark on the music and film industries. Known for his partnership with lyricist Ray Evans, Livingston's compositions have become iconic, earning him multiple accolades and a place in the Songwriters Hall of Fame. This article delves into Livingston's contributions to music, highlighting his most notable works and the recognition he received throughout
his career.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Jay Livingston was born on March 28, 1915, in McDonald, Pennsylvania, to Jewish parents. He grew up with an older sister, Vera, and a younger brother, Alan W. Livingston, who would later become a prominent executive at Capitol Records and NBC television. Livingston's musical journey began with piano lessons under Harry Archer in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He furthered his education at the University of Pennsylvania, where he organized a dance band and met Ray Evans, a fellow student.
The duo began their songwriting collaboration in 1937, but it wasn't until 1946 that they achieved significant success with the song "To Each His Own." This song reached number one on the Billboard charts for three different artists and occupied the top five positions on the "Most Played On the Air" chart for several weeks. This breakthrough marked the beginning of Livingston's illustrious career in music.
Iconic Compositions and Awards
Livingston and Evans continued to create memorable music, with "Buttons and Bows" becoming their next multi-million seller in 1947. This song won the Academy Award for Best Song, solidifying their reputation in the industry. The duo's success continued with "Mona Lisa," which became a chart hit for multiple artists and earned them another Oscar.
Their third Academy Award came in 1956 for "Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)," featured in the film "The Man Who Knew Too Much." Livingston and Evans also wrote "Tammy" for the movie "Tammy and the Bachelor" in 1957, further showcasing their versatility and talent in composing music for films.
Television and Cultural Impact
Beyond film scores, Livingston and Evans made significant contributions to television, writing theme songs for popular shows like "Bonanza" and "Mister Ed," with Livingston himself singing the latter's lyrics. Their Christmas song "Silver Bells," initially titled "Tinkle Bells," became a holiday classic, demonstrating their ability to create music that resonates with audiences across different mediums.
Livingston's legacy is commemorated with a historical marker in McDonald, Pennsylvania, and his induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. His tombstone in Los Angeles bears the inscription "Que Será, Será," a testament to the enduring impact of his work. Jay Livingston's music continues to be celebrated, reflecting his significant contributions to the world of entertainment.
