A romantic singer-songwriter famous for his 1982 hit "Key Largo," a nostalgic ballad inspired by the classic film of the same name.
Bertie Higgins is an American singer-songwriter best known for his 1982 hit song "Key Largo," a romantic ballad that reached No. 8 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and topped the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. This iconic song, named after the classic Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall film, catapulted Higgins to fame and solidified his place in the soft rock genre.
Born Elbert Joseph Higgins on December 8, 1944, in Tarpon Springs, Florida, Higgins is of Portuguese, Irish, and German descent. His early foray into show business began at the tender age of twelve as a ventriloquist, winning local talent contests and becoming a favorite at school assemblies around Tampa Bay.
After graduating from Tarpon Springs High School, Higgins enrolled in St. Petersburg College to study journalism and fine art. However, he eventually left college to pursue a career in music, becoming a drummer for Tommy Roe's backup band, The Roemans. This stint saw him perform alongside legendary groups like The Rolling Stones and The Beach Boys.
Tiring of the road life, Higgins returned to Florida, trading his drumsticks for a guitar to focus on crafting his own music and lyrics. This pivotal decision led to him being discovered by music producers Bob Crewe, Phil Gernhard, and Felton Jarvis, who contributed to his growth as a songwriter.
In 1980, Higgins moved to Atlanta, where he met record producer Sonny Limbo, who arranged a meeting with music publisher Bill Lowery. This connection ultimately led to the creation of "Key Largo," the song that would change his life forever.
Higgins' 1982 album, Just Another Day in Paradise, spawned not only "Key Largo" but also other charting singles, solidifying his position as a soft rock sensation. This success led to appearances on popular television shows, including The Tonight Show and Solid Gold.
Bertie Higgins' contribution to the soft rock genre is undeniable, with "Key Largo" remaining a timeless classic. His legacy extends beyond his music, as he has inspired a new generation of singer-songwriters to pursue their passions.
With a career spanning over four decades, Bertie Higgins has left an indelible mark on the music industry. His soulful voice, romantic ballads, and enduring legacy continue to captivate audiences to this day.
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