A legendary jazz musician, composer, and producer, best known for his iconic Schoolhouse Rock! songs that taught grammar and math to generations of kids. His catchy tunes and clever lyrics made learning fun!
Bob Dorough is best known for his iconic contributions to the world of jazz and music education, having composed and performed songs for the beloved TV series Schoolhouse Rock. As a bebop and cool jazz vocalist, pianist, and composer, Dorough left an indelible mark on the music industry, working alongside legends like Miles Davis and Blossom Dearie.
Born on December 12, 1923, in Cherry Hill, Polk County, Arkansas, Dorough grew up in Plainview, Texas. During World War II, he participated in Army bands as a pianist, clarinetist, saxophonist, and arranger. After the war, he attended North Texas State University, where he studied composition and piano.
In the late 1940s, Dorough moved to New York City, where he became a graduate student at Columbia University and performed at local jazz clubs. He was soon hired for a tour by boxer Sugar Ray Robinson, who had interrupted his boxing career to pursue music.
In 1954, Dorough moved to Paris, where he worked as a musician and musical director, recording with jazz vocalist Blossom Dearie. His first album, Devil May Care, was released in 1956 and featured a version of Charlie Parker's "Yardbird Suite" with lyrics added by Dorough.
Jazz trumpeter Miles Davis was impressed by the album and sought out Dorough to provide lyrics and vocals for his 1962 Christmas record. The result was "Blue Xmas," which appeared on the compilation album Jingle Bell Jazz. During this session, Dorough also recorded "Nothing Like You," which later appeared on Davis' album Sorcerer.
In the 1970s, Dorough began working on the iconic TV series Schoolhouse Rock, composing and performing songs that taught children about grammar, math, science, and social studies. His catchy tunes, such as "Conjunction Junction" and "Three Is a Magic Number," have become synonymous with childhood education.
Dorough's work on Schoolhouse Rock earned him multiple Emmy nominations and won him a Peabody Award in 2002. He continued to work on various music projects throughout his career, releasing several albums and collaborating with other musicians.
Bob Dorough's contributions to jazz and music education cannot be overstated. His work on Schoolhouse Rock has inspired generations of children to learn through music, and his collaborations with jazz legends have helped shape the genre.
Dorough passed away on April 23, 2018, but his legacy lives on through his music, which continues to inspire and educate audiences around the world.
"I like to think of myself as a song plumber – I fix leaky lyrics and plug in catchy melodies."
"I was lucky to have had the chance to work on Schoolhouse Rock. It's been a thrill to see how it has resonated with people of all ages."
Bob Dorough's remarkable career and legacy continue to inspire and educate audiences around the world. His contributions to jazz and music education have left an indelible mark on the music industry, and his iconic songs will be remembered for generations to come.
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