Role

:

Composer

Genre

:

Orchestral

 

Charlie Smalls was an American composer and songwriter who is best known for his contributions to the musical "The Wiz." Born on October 25, 1943, in New York City, Smalls grew up in a musical family. His mother was a gospel singer, and his father played the piano. Smalls began playing the piano at a young age and showed a natural talent for music. Smalls attended the High School of Performing Arts in New York City, where he studied music theory and composition. After graduating, he attended the Manhattan School of Music, where he studied classical music. However, Smalls was more interested in popular music and began writing songs for various artists. In the 1960s, Smalls began working as a songwriter for Motown Records. He wrote songs for artists such as Diana Ross, The Temptations, and Marvin Gaye. However, Smalls was not satisfied with writing songs for other artists and wanted to create his own music. In 1974, Smalls was approached by producer Ken Harper to write the music for a new musical adaptation of "The Wizard of Oz." Smalls was initially hesitant to take on the project, but he eventually agreed. The musical, titled "The Wiz," premiered on Broadway in 1975 and was a huge success. "The Wiz" was a reimagining of "The Wizard of Oz" with an all-black cast and a contemporary urban setting. Smalls' music for the show was a blend of soul, funk, and gospel, and it featured hit songs such as "Ease on Down the Road" and "Home." The show won seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and was later adapted into a film starring Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. After the success of "The Wiz," Smalls continued to write music for the stage and screen. He wrote the music for the Broadway musical "Shenandoah" in 1975 and the film "The Jerk" in 1979. However, Smalls struggled to replicate the success of "The Wiz" and never achieved the same level of fame. Tragically, Smalls died on November 27, 1987, at the age of 44. He had been battling cancer for several years and had undergone multiple surgeries. Despite his untimely death, Smalls' music continues to be celebrated and remembered. In conclusion, Charlie Smalls was a talented composer and songwriter who made a significant contribution to the world of music. His music for "The Wiz" remains a beloved classic and continues to inspire new generations of musicians. Smalls' legacy is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create something truly magical.

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