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Home > My Book
"How refreshing to read a book that has been written with such candor. Jack's memoirs about his Jewish roots, his loves and career triumphs and travails will enrich your heart in the same way his songs have enriched the American Songbook." Jerry Herman — Producer, Lyricist, Composer of Hello Dolly, Mame, Cage Aux Folles and Miss Spectacular "It's the classic and great songwriters like Jack Lawrence who will go down in music history. Beautiful tunes, literate lyrics. Bravo to Jack." Liz Smith — New York Post Syndicated Columnist "From the great era of the American Songbook, Jack Lawrence is one of the rare masters of the craft. I feel blessed to be a fan and friend for over forty years, also a two-time collaborator (The Pawnbroker and The Color Blue Remains) with this classic and timeless sculptor of words that touch the soul. Jack has written a definite must-read autobiography." Quincy Jones — Composer, Arranger, Conductor and Producer "This fascinating and delightful book is a virtual history of show business through the eyes of one of its greatest songwriters." Michael Feinstein — Pop Vocalist, Composer and Arranger In a warm and intimate memoir, Jack Lawrence guides us through his colorful lifetime, starting with the romantic mating of his Russian parents who were first cousins. Along the way he takes us on his incredible journey that covers the twentieth century.
During his career, Mr. Lawrence has contributed many famous standards to the American Songbook. In 1933, his first published song, "Play Fiddle Play," became an international success. Some of his songs have also sparked famous careers. "All or Nothing At All" was the first huge hit for Frank Sinatra as a solo performer. Dinah Shore rose to overnight fame with her first recording of Jack's "Yes, My Darling Daughter." Rosemary Clooney's rendition of "Tenderly" transformed her from a novelty singer to a purveyor of lovely ballads and a film career. The Ink Spots went on to glory with "If I Didn't Care." And "Beyond the Sea" made history for young Bobby Darin. "Ciribiribin" was the result of the first teaming of the Andrews Sisters and Bing Crosby. Harry James' trumpet solo woke the world with "Sleepy Lagoon." "Symphony" was recorded by every well-known vocalist, breaking records on "Your Hit Parade" for 17 weeks. These are just a few of Mr. Lawrence's songs that are still being performed today and enjoyed by audiences all over the world. Jack Lawrence now shares his memoirs with us, and it is, in essence, the story of a man who has realized his life's dream. Over 50 major film productions have used Mr. Lawrence's songs.
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Copyright © 2005 Jack Lawrence. All Rights Reserved. |


With humor, nostalgia and an honesty not often found in autobiographies, Mr. Lawrence tells about his earliest dream of being a writer of songs and of how that dream came true. He takes us through the fabulous Big Band era with all his hits, quoting many of his well-known lyrics. He also opens his heart to tell of his love lives, his passion for collecting American art and ancient artifacts, and his sidetrack into Broadway theater ownership and productions.