Will Jennings, the American lyricist known for his work on iconic songs like ‘My Heart Will Go On’ and ‘Up Where We Belong’, has passed away at the age of 80 in his home in Tyler, Texas. Jennings leaves behind a legacy of over 500 songs written for legendary singers such as Céline Dion, Whitney Houston, and Barry Manilow. Born in Texas in 1944, Jennings found early success in Nashville before transitioning to Hollywood, where he wrote hits like ‘Looks Like We Made It’ for Barry Manilow.
Jennings’ career was marked by collaborations with top artists across genres, including B.B. King, Mariah Carey, and Joe Cocker. His work on film soundtracks, such as ‘Up Where We Belong’ and ‘My Heart Will Go On’, earned him critical acclaim, including two Academy Awards, a Golden Globe, and a Grammy Award.
In addition to his Oscar-winning songs, Jennings’ collaborations with artists like Eric Clapton on ‘Tears in Heaven’ showcased his versatility and talent as a lyricist. In 2006, he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the music industry.
Following news of his passing, tributes poured in from fellow musicians and collaborators, honoring Jennings’ legacy as a musical genius. Peter Wolf of The J. Geils Band described Jennings as a maestro with a brilliant mind and gentle spirit, while Dianne Warren paid tribute to his enduring impact on the world of music.
Will Jennings’ influence on the music industry will be remembered for years to come, as fans continue to be moved by his timeless lyrics and contributions to some of the most beloved songs in music history.
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