Neil Sedaka has posted a short statement on the passing of Gerry Goffin this week.
Sedaka was instrumental in Carole King and Gerry Goffin’s early success. He had dated King in high school and, as he writes here, brought them to the Brill Building.
I am saddened to hear about the passing of Gerry Goffin. We all started together in The Brill Building. As a matter of fact, I was the one who brought Gerry and Carole King up to the offices of Aldon Music where they signed with Don Kirshner and Al Nevins. I remember when we were all growing up in Brooklyn; singing on the street corners, at the local hops. Gerry was a brilliant lyricist in our business. The great “Will You Love Me Tomorrow”, “Up on the Roof” and “Saving All My Love For You” were over and above the typical pop song of the day. Every time one of his songs is played on the radio, he will live on. My condolences to his wife and his family.
Other statements:
Brian Wilson
I loved the songs Gerry Goffin and Carole King wrote together – a big influence for me as a young songwriter. Gerry will be missed. – Brian
Tony Orlando
I lost my friend Gerry Goffin today. He is no longer “halfway to paradise.” He is in paradise. The world will miss this great lyricist.My sympathy and prayers go to his wife, Michele and his children. And to Carole King as well. This man was some kind of wonderful.
Sir Tim Rice
Oh no – Gerry Goffin RIP. Will You Love Me Tomorrow one of the greatest songs of the 20th century + he wrote many other classics
Diane Warren
Rest in Peace Gerry Goffin. Your songs will live on forever even if U couldn’t. Thank U for the songs and for showing how it’s done.
Duane Eddy
Thank you, Gerry Goffin. Many great songs that will live forever.
Sawyer Brown
Sad to hear of the passing of one of the greatest songwriters ever, Gerry Goffin. While his name might not be instantly familiar to everyone, Gerry, along with his then-wife Carole King, wrote so many timeless songs: “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow,” “Up On the Roof,” “Take Good Care of My Baby,” “One Fine Day,” “Pleasant Valley Sunday,” “Don’t Bring Me Down”—and that’s only a small partial list. What a legacy of music. From the kid who was glued to the record player listening to those songs and that songwriting—thank you, Gerry Goffin! Prayers for his family.
