Written by: Carlos Hernandez

Andrew Gold: The Musical Maestro Behind the Los Angeles Soft Rock Sound

Andrew Gold was an American multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, and record producer who significantly influenced the Los Angeles-dominated pop-soft rock sound of the 1970s. With a string of hit singles, including "Lonely Boy," "Thank You for Being a Friend," and "Never Let Her Slip Away," Gold's music continues to resonate with audiences to this day.

Early Life and Career

Born on August 2, 1951, in Burbank, California, Gold was destined for a career in show business. His mother, Marni Nixon, was a singer who provided the singing voice for numerous actresses, including Natalie Wood in West Side Story, while his father, Ernest Gold, was an Austrian-born composer who won an Academy Award for his score for the movie Exodus. Gold began writing songs at the age of 13 and scored his first recording contract at 16, submitting demos to Polydor Records' London office.

Rise to Fame

In the 1970s, Gold's music career took off. He released his debut album, Andrew Gold, in 1975, which included the hit single "Lonely Boy." The song peaked at number 7 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and established Gold as a rising star in the soft rock genre.

Gold's subsequent albums, What's Wrong with This Picture? (1976) and All This and Heaven Too (1978), spawned further hit singles, including "Thank You for Being a Friend" and "Never Let Her Slip Away." His music often featured lush harmonies, intricate instrumentation, and heartfelt lyrics, which resonated with audiences seeking a softer, more laid-back sound.

Collaborations and Later Career

In the 1980s, Gold collaborated with 10cc's Graham Gouldman to form the duo Wax, which achieved international chart success with hits like "Bridge to Your Heart" and "Shelter." Gold also produced, composed, and performed on various film, commercial, and television soundtracks, including the theme for the sitcom Mad About You.

In the 1990s, Gold released a tribute to 1960s psychedelic music, Greetings from Planet Love, under the pseudonym the Fraternal Order of the All. He continued to produce and compose music for various projects, including children's novelty songs, such as "Spooky, Scary Skeletons," which became an internet meme in the 2010s.

Legacy and Impact

Andrew Gold's music has left an indelible mark on the soft rock genre. His songs have been covered by numerous artists, including Linda Ronstadt, Art Garfunkel, and America. Gold's music has also been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, ensuring his legacy as a prolific and influential musician.

Gold passed away on June 3, 2011, at the age of 59, but his music continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike. His contribution to the Los Angeles soft rock sound of the 1970s remains unparalleled, and his legacy as a talented musician and songwriter endures.

Awards and Honors

Andrew Gold's music has been recognized with various awards and nominations, including:

• Peaked at number 7 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart with "Lonely Boy"
• Reached number 25 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart with "Thank You for Being a Friend"
• Charted in the UK top 5 with "Never Let Her Slip Away"
• Nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male for "Lonely Boy"

Personal Life and Trivia

Andrew Gold was known for his humble and down-to-earth personality. He was a devoted family man and a passionate music enthusiast, often incorporating his love of 1960s psychedelic music into his work.

• Gold's mother, Marni Nixon, was a singer who provided the singing voice for numerous actresses in film musicals
• Gold's father, Ernest Gold, was an Austrian-born composer who won an Academy Award for his score for the movie Exodus
• Gold began writing songs at the age of 13 and scored his first recording contract at 16

In conclusion, Andrew Gold's immense talent, versatility, and contributions to the music industry have left a lasting impact on the world of soft rock and beyond. His music continues to inspire and delight audiences, ensuring his legacy as a true music legend.