R.I.P.: Pop Lyricist Bob Crewe Has Died

Bob Crewe

Music legend Bob Crewe, whose work can be heard in the Broadway musical Jersey Boys, died Wednesday.

He was 82 years old.

Crewe was born on November 12, 1931 in Newark, New Jersey and despite a natural talent for music, he initially attended Parsons School of Design in New York. Throughout his music career, he still remained active as a visual artist, having designed various album covers.

In 1953, he partnered with Frank Slay Jr., and in 1957, their song “Silhouettes,” performed by The Rays, became a recognized doo-wop hit. Beginning in the early 1960s, Crewe worked with Bob Gaudio on many singles for The Four Seasons as both a producer and co-lyricist. Among the memorable numbers that Crewe collaborated with Gaudio and are featured in the Tony-winning musical are “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like a Man,” “Bye Bye Baby,” “Rag Doll” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.”

In addition to his contributions to The Four Seasons, Crewe co-wrote Patti LaBelle’s “Lady Marmalade” with Kenny Nolan, which became a #1 chart-topper in 1975. He also produced hit singles for artists including Diane Renay, Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels, Michael Jackson and more.

In 2009, Crewe launched The Bob Crewe Foundation, which funds fellowships, scholarships, training and mentorships for aspiring young artists and musicians. The Trust also supports AIDS research and promotes LGBT rights and initiatives. Though Crewe rarely spoke openly of his sexuality, he is considered to be a gay icon in the music industry and beyond.