Explore 10 Historic Songwriting Documentaries
From Tin Pan Alley to Brill Building
The history of songwriting is a rich and intricate tapestry, woven through places like Tin Pan Alley and the Brill Building. These iconic locations in New York City became legendary hubs where talented songwriters crafted hits that have resonated through the decades.
For anyone looking to understand the evolution of American popular music, exploring these songwriters' stories through documentaries provides invaluable insights. From the big-band era to the birth of rock and roll, these films capture the essence of an art form that has continuously shaped culture and society.
1) 'Over the Rainbow' by Harold Arlen and Yip Harburg (1939)
"Over the Rainbow," composed by Harold Arlen with lyrics by Yip Harburg, is one of the most iconic songs in American cinema.
Written for the 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz," it was sung by Judy Garland in her role as Dorothy Gale.
The song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and became Judy Garland's signature piece.
"Over the Rainbow" is renowned for its hopeful message and touching melody.
It has been celebrated widely, even being voted the greatest song of the 20th century by both the National Endowment for the Arts and the Recording Industry Association of America.
The collaboration between Arlen and Harburg showcased their extraordinary talent in creating a song that resonated deeply with audiences.
Their work on "Over the Rainbow" remains a significant milestone in the history of songwriting.
Find more about "The Wizard of Oz" (1939) on Wikipedia.
2) 'Hound Dog' by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller (1952)
"Hound Dog" is a song written by the acclaimed songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. Initially recorded by Big Mama Thornton in 1952, it became an iconic rock and roll hit.
Leiber and Stoller were instrumental figures in the development of rock and roll, transitioning from Tin Pan Alley to crafting influential hits at the Brill Building.
Elvis Presley later recorded "Hound Dog," which propelled the song to international fame. His rendition became one of the best-selling singles of all time, cementing the song's legacy in music history.
The duo's work on "Hound Dog" showcases their innovative approach to blending rhythm and blues with mainstream pop music, influencing future generations of songwriters.
For more information, visit the Wikipedia page.
3) 'You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'' by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil
"You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'" stands as one of the most iconic songs of the 20th century. Written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, it was first recorded by The Righteous Brothers in 1964.
The song is renowned for its use of Phil Spector's Wall of Sound production technique. Spector added layers of instruments to create a full, resonant sound.
Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann collaborated closely on both the music and lyrics. Their partnership produced many hits, but "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'" remains a defining piece.
This song became one of the most played tracks on American radio and television in the 20th century. Its enduring popularity speaks to the effective songwriting and memorable melodies created by Mann and Weil.
For more information on "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'" by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, click here.
4) 'Natural Woman' by Carole King and Gerry Goffin
Carole King and Gerry Goffin crafted the song "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" during an all-night writing session. The title was inspired by the legendary producer Jerry Wexler.
Aretha Franklin recorded the tune, and it was released in 1967, becoming an iconic anthem.
Carole King later recorded her own version for her 1971 album, Tapestry. This album cemented her status as a leading singer-songwriter.
Celine Dion’s version, released as a single in 1995 on the album Tapestry Revisited: A Tribute to Carole King, pays homage to the song's lasting impact.
More about the song and its history.
5) 'On Broadway' by Barry Mann, Cynthia Weil, Jerry Leiber, and Mike Stoller
"On Broadway" was crafted by prolific songwriters Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil. Initially written for The Cookies, it later gained prominence through a version by The Drifters.
Collaborating with Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the song was adapted into a more soulful and bluesy rendition for The Drifters. This version became a significant hit in 1963.
The Drifters' rendition featured a shift in perspective, providing a more realistic portrayal of the struggles faced by performers aspiring to make it on Broadway. The song has since been covered by numerous artists, including George Benson in 1978.
The enduring appeal of "On Broadway" lies in its relatable theme and the combined songwriting prowess of Mann, Weil, Leiber, and Stoller.
6) 'Chapel of Love' by Jeff Barry, Ellie Greenwich, and Phil Spector
'Chapel of Love' is a song co-written by Jeff Barry, Ellie Greenwich, and Phil Spector. Released in 1964, it became famous through its rendition by The Dixie Cups. The song spent three weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, capturing the joy and excitement of a couple's wedding day.
The memorable opening lyrics, "Goin' to the chapel…And we're gonna get married," set the tone for the song's celebratory theme. Barry, Greenwich, and Spector crafted a track that resonated with audiences then and continues to be a beloved classic.
Originally recorded by Darlene Love, the song was later released by The Dixie Cups, becoming their signature hit. The success of 'Chapel of Love' showcases the songwriting prowess of its creators, who were prominent figures in the 1960s pop music scene.
The song's charming melody and relatable lyrics helped it endure over the decades, leading to numerous covers by various artists. This piece remains a testament to the collaborative genius of Barry, Greenwich, and Spector.
For more on this classic track, see Chapel of Love - Wikipedia.
7) 'Stand By Me' by Ben E. King, Jerry Leiber, and Mike Stoller
"Stand By Me" is an iconic song initially performed by Ben E. King in 1961. It was written by King, Jerry Leiber, and Mike Stoller. The song became a major success and has been covered by many artists, showcasing its timeless appeal.
Ben E. King collaborated with Leiber and Stoller, two prolific songwriters and producers. Their partnership led to the creation of this enduring classic. The trio's combined talents ensured that "Stand By Me" resonated with audiences worldwide.
This song's enduring popularity is a testament to its powerful lyrics and soulful melody. The simple, heartfelt message of standing by someone in times of need has universal appeal, contributing to its status as a timeless classic.
For more information on the song and its creators, visit Wikipedia.
8) "Will You Love Me Tomorrow?" by Carole King and Gerry Goffin
"Will You Love Me Tomorrow?" is a significant song by Carole King and Gerry Goffin, recorded by The Shirelles in 1960. This track holds the distinction of being the first song by an all-female group to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Written by Goffin and King, the song explores themes of love and vulnerability. The lyrics convey a young woman's anxiety about whether her romantic partner's love will endure beyond one night.
The music composition by Carole King complements the heartfelt lyrics, creating a timeless piece that resonates with many. The Shirelles' version remains the most famous, but the song has been covered by numerous artists over the decades.
Carole King herself later recorded a version of the song, which added a personal layer to its history. This song stands as a testament to the songwriting prowess of Goffin and King during the Brill Building era.
More information can be found on Wikipedia.
9) 'Leader of the Pack' by Jeff Barry, Ellie Greenwich, and Shadow Morton
"Leader of the Pack" is a song by Jeff Barry, Ellie Greenwich, and George "Shadow" Morton. The track, performed by the American girl group the Shangri-Las, achieved considerable success, topping the charts in 1964.
This song is an iconic example of the "teenage tragedy song" genre. The lyrics narrate the story of a girl who falls in love with a motorcycle gang leader, leading to a tragic end.
"Leader of the Pack" has been influential in music history, reflecting the themes and styles that were prevalent in the 1960s. It also underscores the collaboration between songwriters and performers in creating hits during this era.
The song was later covered by Twisted Sister in 1985, bringing it to a new generation of listeners with a different musical flavor. The original version by the Shangri-Las remains the most well-known and celebrated.
For further information, see Leader of the Pack - Wikipedia.
10) 'The Loco-Motion' by Gerry Goffin and Carole King
'The Loco-Motion' is a 1962 pop song written by the prolific songwriting duo Gerry Goffin and Carole King. Initially intended for R&B singer Dee Dee Sharp, it was ultimately recorded by Little Eva, then a babysitter for Goffin and King.
The song became an instant hit, reaching No. 1 on the U.S. charts. Its energetic rhythm and catchy melody quickly made it a dance craze, with listeners everywhere trying to master "The Loco-Motion."
Remarkably, 'The Loco-Motion' made three distinct appearances in the American Top 3 across different decades. Aside from Little Eva's 1962 version, Grand Funk Railroad revived it in 1974, and Kylie Minogue brought it back in 1987.
Goffin and King's ability to capture youthful exuberance and translate it into a hit song demonstrates their deep connection with the Brill Building's style. The Brill Building, located at 1619 Broadway in Manhattan, was known for producing polished, radio-friendly hits during this era.
For a detailed exploration of the song's history, check out its Wikipedia page.
The Evolution of Songwriting
Songwriting has undergone significant changes, from the early days of Tin Pan Alley to the influential Brill Building era. Key shifts include changes in thematic focus, the role of technology, and the centralization of the music industry.
Origins and Early Influences
Tin Pan Alley, located in Manhattan, became the epicenter of American popular music in the late 19th century. Songwriters produced a range of music, including ballads, dance music, and vaudeville. The most profitable product was sheet music, sold for home consumption.
The industry's focus was on songwriting as a craft. Composers and lyricists worked in close proximity to publishers and performers, allowing for quick dissemination of new songs. This period laid the groundwork for later songwriting traditions, with an emphasis on melody and appealing to broad audiences.
Transition from Tin Pan Alley to the Brill Building
In the mid-20th century, Manhattan's musical hub shifted a few blocks north to the Brill Building at 1619 Broadway. This building housed not just songwriters but also record labels and studios. Brill Building sound signified a more industrial approach to music creation, with teams of writers producing hits for various artists.
Songwriters like Gerry Goffin and Carole King were instrumental in shaping modern pop. They balanced commercial appeal with artistic innovation. This period also marked the rise of young songwriters and producers, who injected fresh energy into the music, syncing well with the youth culture of the time.
Key Figures in Songwriting History
Throughout the evolution of popular music, certain songwriters have left an indelible mark with their timeless hits and innovative styles. This section highlights the important figures from two significant eras: Tin Pan Alley and the Brill Building.
Tin Pan Alley's Pioneers
Tin Pan Alley, located in Manhattan, was a breeding ground for early 20th-century American popular music. Irving Berlin, who penned classics like "White Christmas" and "God Bless America," is one of its most notable figures. His work showcased a blend of American folk styles and Broadway flair.
George Gershwin and his brother Ira Gershwin formed another influential duo. George's compositions, often combined with Ira's lyrics, resulted in unforgettable tunes like "Rhapsody in Blue" and "Someone to Watch Over Me." These songs combined classical music complexity with contemporary jazz influences.
Cole Porter also emerged as a key player, known for his witty and sophisticated lyrics. His works, such as "Anything Goes" and "I Get a Kick Out of You," achieved great popularity and are still revered today for their clever wordplay and catchy melodies.
Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart shifted from contributing to Tin Pan Alley to dominating Broadway, creating standards like "My Funny Valentine" and "Blue Moon." Their ability to express human emotion through music greatly impacted the American songbook.
Brill Building's Iconic Songwriters
The Brill Building, located at 1619 Broadway in New York City, became a hub for a new wave of songwriters in the 1960s. Carole King and Gerry Goffin were among the most successful, crafting hits like "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" for The Shirelles. King's later solo success reaffirmed her versatile songwriting talent.
Neil Sedaka collaborated extensively with Howard Greenfield, producing iconic songs such as "Calendar Girl" and "Breaking Up Is Hard to Do." Their work exemplified the catchy, youth-oriented pop sound that defined the era.
Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil were another formidable team, responsible for timeless songs like "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'" by The Righteous Brothers. Their ability to blend emotional depth with commercial appeal set them apart.
Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman also made significant contributions, writing hits like "Save the Last Dance for Me" and "This Magic Moment." Their songs frequently topped the charts and became staples of the rock and roll canon.
Impact on Modern Music
The transition from Tin Pan Alley to the Brill Building marked key evolution in the history of songwriting. Each era contributed distinct elements that shaped the landscape of contemporary music.
Legacy of Tin Pan Alley
Tin Pan Alley played a crucial role in the development of American popular music. Located in Manhattan, this area became a music publishing hub in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The songwriters and music publishers of Tin Pan Alley established many standards of the American Songbook.
Their work emphasized melody and accessible lyrics, creating songs that could be easily marketed and sold. This approach laid the groundwork for the modern music publishing industry, leading to the rise of radio, jazz age, and films, which further popularized these songs. Tin Pan Alley's influence is still seen in today's music, particularly in the emphasis on catchy, memorable tunes.
Influence of Brill Building Songs
The Brill Building, located at 1619 Broadway in New York City, became the epicenter of pop and rock and roll during the mid-20th century. Building on the Tin Pan Alley tradition, it housed songwriters, record labels, and recording studios under one roof. This concentration fostered a collaborative environment where hit songs were crafted with precision.
The "Brill Building Sound" emerged, characterized by polished and sophisticated pop production. Songwriters like Carole King, Neil Diamond, and Barry Mann created enduring hits that continue to resonate. The Brill Building's emphasis on professional songwriting and production practices heavily influenced the structure and sound of modern pop music.
