When it comes to musical theater, few names shine as bright as Herbert Kretzmer, the renowned lyricist behind the iconic English-language adaptation of Les Misérables. With a career spanning over six decades, Kretzmer's contributions to the world of music, journalism, and literature are nothing short of remarkable.
Born on October 5, 1925, in Kroonstad, South Africa, Kretzmer was the youngest of four sons to Lithuanian Jewish immigrants William and Tilly Kretzmer. His parents fled the pogroms of Tsarist Russia, seeking refuge in small-town South Africa. Growing up in a humble furniture store, Kretzmer's early life was marked by a love for literature and a keen sense of observation.
Kretzmer's professional career began with writing documentary films and commentary for a weekly cinema newsreel. He soon transitioned to print journalism, working as a reporter and feature writer for the Johannesburg Sunday Express. In 1954, he relocated to London, where he pursued twin careers as a journalist and lyric writer.
Kretzmer's move to London marked a significant shift in his career. He began writing lyrics for the BBC's televised satire That Was the Week That Was, including the racial satire "Song of Nostalgia for an All-American." This early foray into lyric writing laid the groundwork for his future collaborations.
In the 1980s, Kretzmer teamed up with French composer Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil to adapt the classic novel Les Misérables for the English stage. The rest, as they say, is history. The musical's massive success catapulted Kretzmer to international fame, earning him a Tony Award nomination for Best Lyrics.
Kretzmer's collaborations with French singer-songwriter Charles Aznavour led to the creation of several popular songs, including "Yesterday When I Was Young" and "She." His work has been recognized with numerous awards, including two national press awards for TV Critic of the Year in 1980.
Kretzmer's life was marked by several significant events, including his older brother Elliot's service as a bomber crew member during World War II and later becoming the Mayor of Johannesburg in 1991. Kretzmer's own life was filled with a passion for writing, music, and literature.
Kretzmer's work reflects his strong convictions about the power of art to bring people together. He once said, "The best lyrics are those that touch people's emotions, that make them feel something they didn't feel before." This philosophy is evident in his masterful lyrics, which continue to evoke emotions in audiences worldwide.
Herbert Kretzmer's contributions to the world of music and literature are immeasurable. His work has inspired generations of artists, writers, and musicians. His legacy serves as a testament to the transformative power of art to bring people together and create positive change.
Herbert Kretzmer passed away on October 14, 2020, leaving behind a legacy of love, music, and words that will continue to inspire generations to come.
Born in 1924
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