Role

:

Composer

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

April 15, 1908 in Brooklyn, NY

Death

:

March 4, 1995 in Los Angeles, CA

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Eden Ahbez was an American composer and songwriter who was born on April 15, 1908, in Brooklyn, New York. He was the son of a rabbi and grew up in a strict Jewish household. Ahbez was a self-taught musician who began playing the piano at a young age. He was also interested in nature and spirituality, which would later influence his music. In the 1930s, Ahbez moved to California and became a part of the bohemian culture in Los Angeles. He lived a simple life, sleeping on the beach and eating a vegetarian diet. Ahbez became known for his long hair and beard, which were uncommon at the time. He also wore sandals and a white robe, which gave him a distinctive appearance. Ahbez began writing music in the 1940s and became known for his song "Nature Boy." The song was inspired by Ahbez's interest in nature and spirituality and was written as a tribute to a man he had met who lived in the hills of Los Angeles. The song was recorded by Nat King Cole in 1948 and became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard charts. "Nature Boy" was Ahbez's most famous composition, but he also wrote other songs that were popular in the 1940s and 1950s. These included "Land of Love," "Lonely Island," and "Myna Bird." Ahbez's music was known for its romantic and mystical themes, which were influenced by his interest in nature and spirituality. Ahbez's music was also influenced by his interest in Eastern philosophy and religion. He was a follower of the Indian guru Paramahansa Yogananda and incorporated elements of Hinduism and Buddhism into his music. Ahbez was also interested in the teachings of the American mystic and philosopher Manly P. Hall, who wrote about esoteric subjects such as astrology, alchemy, and the occult. In addition to his music, Ahbez was also known for his unconventional lifestyle. He was a vegetarian and believed in living a simple life close to nature. He often slept outdoors and was known to walk barefoot. Ahbez was also a proponent of nudism and believed that clothing was a barrier to spiritual enlightenment. Ahbez's music and lifestyle made him a popular figure in the counterculture of the 1950s and 1960s. He was admired by musicians such as Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys and Donovan, who were influenced by his music and philosophy. Ahbez continued to write music throughout his life, but he never achieved the same level of success as he did with "Nature Boy." Eden Ahbez died on March 4, 1995, in Los Angeles, California. He was 86 years old. Ahbez's music and philosophy continue to inspire musicians and spiritual seekers to this day. His legacy is one of creativity, individuality, and a deep connection to nature and spirituality.

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