Role

:

Composer Performer

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

February 4, 1915 in Salamanca, NY

Death

:

February 15, 2007 in Los Angeles, CA

 

Ray Evans was an American songwriter and composer who was born on February 4, 1915, in Salamanca, New York. He was the son of a Methodist minister and grew up in a musical family. His mother was a pianist, and his father played the violin. Evans started playing the piano at a young age and showed a natural talent for music. Evans attended the University of Pennsylvania, where he studied English and journalism. While in college, he met his future songwriting partner, Jay Livingston. The two became friends and started writing songs together. After graduation, they moved to New York City to pursue their music career. In 1941, Evans and Livingston wrote their first hit song, "G'bye Now," which was recorded by Benny Goodman. The song's success led to a contract with Paramount Pictures, where they wrote songs for several films, including "The Fleet's In" and "The Cat and the Canary." In 1948, Evans and Livingston wrote the song "Buttons and Bows" for the film "The Paleface." The song became a huge hit and won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. The success of "Buttons and Bows" led to more film work, and the duo wrote songs for several other movies, including "Captain Carey, U.S.A." and "The Lemon Drop Kid." In addition to their film work, Evans and Livingston wrote songs for television shows, including "Bonanza" and "Mr. Ed." They also wrote the theme song for the popular game show "Bonanza." Evans and Livingston's songwriting partnership lasted for over 40 years, and they wrote over 400 songs together. Some of their other popular songs include "Mona Lisa," "Que Sera, Sera," and "Silver Bells." Evans was known for his ability to write catchy melodies and clever lyrics. He often wrote songs that were humorous or had a playful tone. His songs were popular with both audiences and performers, and many of his songs have become standards in the American songbook. Evans passed away on February 15, 2007, at the age of 92. He left behind a legacy of memorable songs that continue to be performed and enjoyed today. His contributions to the world of music have earned him a place among the great American songwriters of the 20th century.

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