Role

:

Composer

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

October 18, 1918 in Harrisburg, PA

Death

:

February 7, 1999 in Sherman Oaks, CA

 

Bobby Troup was an American composer, pianist, and actor who made significant contributions to the world of jazz and popular music. Born on October 18, 1918, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Troup grew up in a musical family. His mother was a concert pianist, and his father was a surgeon who played the violin. Troup began playing the piano at a young age and showed a natural talent for music. Troup attended the University of Pennsylvania, where he studied music and played in various jazz bands. After graduating, he moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. In 1941, Troup joined the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra as a pianist and arranger. He also began writing songs, and his first hit, "Daddy," was recorded by Sammy Kaye in 1941. During World War II, Troup served in the U.S. Marine Corps and played in a military band. After the war, he moved to Los Angeles and began working as a songwriter and performer. In 1946, he wrote "Route 66," which became a hit for Nat King Cole and later became the theme song for a popular television show of the same name. Troup continued to write songs and perform throughout the 1950s and 1960s. He recorded several albums as a jazz pianist and vocalist, including "Bobby Troup Sings Johnny Mercer" and "The Songs of Bobby Troup." He also appeared in several films and television shows, including "MASH" and "Emergency!" Troup's music was known for its sophisticated lyrics and catchy melodies. He wrote songs for many popular singers, including Peggy Lee, Julie London, and Ella Fitzgerald. Some of his most famous compositions include "The Meaning of the Blues," "Girl Talk," and "Lemon Twist." In addition to his music career, Troup was also an accomplished actor. He appeared in several films, including "The Gene Krupa Story" and "The Five Pennies." He also had a recurring role on the television show "Emergency!" as Dr. Joe Early. Troup continued to perform and write music until his death on February 7, 1999, in Sherman Oaks, California. He was 80 years old. Troup's contributions to the world of jazz and popular music continue to be celebrated today, and his music remains popular with audiences around the world.

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