Date of Birth: April 25, 1933
Zodiac Sign: Taurus
Date of Death: August 22, 2011
Biography
Jerome “Jerry” Leiber was an influential American lyricist and songwriter best known for his partnership with composer Mike Stoller. Together, Leiber and Stoller became one of the most successful and innovative songwriting teams in the history of popular music. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Leiber moved to Los Angeles as a teenager and soon met Stoller. Their collaboration began in the early 1950s, and they quickly became known for their ability to craft catchy, narrative-driven songs that spanned a variety of genres including rhythm and blues, rock and roll, and pop. Leiber and Stoller wrote numerous hits that became classics, such as “Hound Dog,” “Jailhouse Rock,” “Stand By Me,” and “On Broadway.” Their work was performed by a wide array of artists, including Elvis Presley, The Coasters, and Ben E. King. Leiber’s sharp, witty lyrics and Stoller’s innovative melodies and arrangements brought a new level of sophistication to rock and roll music. Throughout their careers, Leiber and Stoller received numerous awards and accolades, including induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Jerry Leiber passed away in 2011, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to influence musicians and songwriters today.
5 Interesting Facts about Jerry Leiber
1. Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller wrote “Hound Dog” for blues singer Big Mama Thornton before it was famously covered by Elvis Presley.
2. Leiber and Stoller were among the first to establish themselves as independent record producers, creating hits for artists like The Coasters and The Drifters.
3. The duo wrote the song “Stand By Me” with Ben E. King, which has been covered more than 400 times by various artists.
4. Jerry Leiber won a Grammy Award in 1995 for the song “Is That All There Is?” performed by Peggy Lee.
5. Leiber and Stoller were known for their theatrical approach to songwriting, often incorporating elements of humor and storytelling.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Jerry Leiber
1. “Elvis was bigger than life. He was the biggest star in the world, and he had a quality that was unique.”
2. “We wanted to write songs that told stories, that had a beginning, a middle, and an end.”
3. “Songs are like movies, only shorter.”
4. “We always tried to write songs that had a sense of humor, because life is funny and music should reflect that.”
5. “The key to a great song is simplicity, something that resonates with people on a fundamental level.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Jerry Leiber’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $100 million.
Children
Jerry Leiber had three children: Jed Leiber, Oliver Leiber, and Jake Leiber.
Relevant Links
1. [Jerry Leiber Biography](https://www.songhall.org/profile/Jerry_Leiber
2. [Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – Jerry Leiber](https://www.rockhall.com/inductees/jerry-leiber
4. [Leiber and Stoller Official Website](http://www.leiberstoller.com
5. [Grammy Awards – Jerry Leiber](https://www.grammy.com/artists/jerry-leiber/11801
