Role

:

Composer Performer

Birth

:

November 10, 1909 in Mount Vernon, NY

Death

:

September 3, 1985 in New York City, NY

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Johnny Marks was an American composer and songwriter who is best known for his contributions to the world of Christmas music. Born on November 10, 1909, in Mount Vernon, New York, Marks grew up in a musical family. His father, Samuel Marks, was a composer and conductor, and his mother, Lillian Breslow Marks, was a lyricist and librettist. Marks began playing the piano at a young age and showed a natural talent for music. Marks attended Colgate University, where he studied music theory and composition. After graduating in 1931, he moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. He worked as a pianist and arranger for various radio programs and musical revues. In 1935, he wrote his first hit song, "Is It True What They Say About Dixie?" which was recorded by Al Jolson. Marks continued to write popular songs throughout the 1930s and 1940s, including "I Can't Escape from You," "All of Me," and "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer." The latter song, which Marks wrote in 1949, would become his most famous work. The story of Rudolph had been created by Robert L. May in 1939 as a promotional booklet for Montgomery Ward, but it was Marks' song that made Rudolph a household name. "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" was first recorded by Gene Autry in 1949 and became an instant hit. The song has since been recorded by countless artists and has become a beloved Christmas classic. Marks went on to write several other Christmas songs, including "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree," "A Holly Jolly Christmas," and "Silver and Gold." In addition to his work in popular music, Marks also wrote music for television and film. He composed the theme song for the television series "The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp" and wrote the score for the 1964 film "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer." Marks was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1981 and received a posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999. He died on September 3, 1985, in New York City at the age of 75. Despite his success as a composer of popular music, Marks' legacy is perhaps best remembered for his contributions to the world of Christmas music. His songs have become an integral part of the holiday season and continue to be enjoyed by generations of listeners.

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