Will Jennings, the esteemed lyricist renowned for his iconic compositions such as Celine Dion’s “My Heart Will Go On” from the film Titanic and Steve Winwood’s “Higher Love,” has sadly departed from this life at the age of 80, as reported by various media outlets in the United States.
Reports indicate that Jennings passed away at his residence in Texas; however, the specific cause of death has yet to be revealed.
A native of Kilgore, Texas, Jennings experienced a remarkably prolific career that spanned five decades.
His professional journey in Hollywood commenced in 1976, and he swiftly ascended to prominence with the success of songs such as Barry Manilow’s “Looks Like We Made It,” which he co-wrote with Richard Kerr in 1977.
His collaboration with Kerr continued with Manilow’s successful track “Somewhere in the Night,” further solidifying Jennings’ reputation as an exceptional songwriter.
Throughout the years, he crafted works for legendary musicians including B.B. King, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Roy Orbison, among numerous others.
Jennings’ contributions to film soundtracks received widespread acclaim. He garnered his first Academy Award in 1983 for the song “Up Where We Belong” from the film An Officer and a Gentleman.
Subsequently, he achieved a Grammy Award for his collaboration with Eric Clapton on the song “Tears in Heaven” for the film Rush.
Nevertheless, it was the soundtrack of Titanic in 1997 that bestowed upon Jennings his most significant acclaim.
His lyrics for “My Heart Will Go On,” performed by Celine Dion, received an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and multiple Grammy Awards in 1998, establishing it as one of the most cherished songs in cinematic history.
Throughout his illustrious career, Jennings received six Grammy Award nominations, winning three, and was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2006.
Tributes have been abundant from the music community. Singer Peter Wolf characterized Jennings as “a maestro, brilliant mind, and a gentle spirit,” commending his generosity and patience as both a collaborator and a friend.
Will Jennings bequeaths a timeless musical legacy that shall persist in inspiring future generations.