Thursday, September 11, 2014

Bob Crewe Has Died

Bob Crewe, who with Bob Gaudio wrote many of the 4 Seasons' hits, died today at the age of 83.

Crewe co-wrote "Big Girls Don't Cry", "Walk Like A Man", "Rag Doll", "Let's Hang On", and "Silence Is Golden" for the 4 Seasons, both with Gaudio and other songwriters.  Crewe also wrote "Can't Take My Eyes Off You" and "My Eyes Adored You" for Frankie Valli's solo career, as well as the #1 smash "Lady Marmalade" for Labelle, and many others.  Crewe produced "Sherry", the first hit for the group.

Crewe began his career at age 15 as a member of the Royal Teens, when he co-wrote "Short Shorts".  In addition to overseeing the career of the 4 Seasons, Crewe was instrumental in the careers of many artists.  In 1966, he began his own record label, DynoVoice records.  Among the artists that recorded for Crewe--the Toys, and a group that Bob discovered, Mitch Ryder & the Detroit Wheels.  Crewe also produced for Ben E. King, the Orlons, and Dee Dee Sharp.

In 1967, Crewe wrote and recorded one of The Top 100 Instrumentals of the Rock Era*, "Music To Watch Girls by".

Rest in peace, Bob.  You were one of the most important people early in the Rock Era.

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