Sonny Curtis, the renowned rock 'n' roll songwriter and musician, passed away at the age of 88. His death was confirmed by his wife, Louise Curtis, to the Associated Press. Curtis left behind a legacy that spans decades, encompassing iconic songs that defined generations. His impact extended far beyond his time with Buddy Holly and the Crickets; his songwriting talent touched countless artists and resonated with audiences worldwide.
Best known for penning the rebellious anthem "I Fought the Law," Curtis's influence on music is undeniable. Initially a Top 10 hit for the Bobby Fuller Four in 1966, the song's enduring appeal led to countless covers by artists spanning genres, from punk legends The Clash to country icons Johnny Cash and Nanci Griffith, solidifying its place in music history. The raw energy and relatable defiance in "I Fought the Law" continue to inspire and entertain listeners.
However, Curtis's talent extended beyond the raw grit of rock and roll. He also composed the uplifting and instantly recognizable theme song for the beloved television sitcom, "The Mary Tyler Moore Show." "Love is All Around," as it was initially titled, perfectly captured the spirit of the show, becoming synonymous with its iconic imagery and empowering message for independent women. The theme's enduring popularity led to numerous cover versions, including those by Sammy Davis Jr. and Joan Jett, demonstrating its transgenerational appeal.
Beyond these two career-defining pieces, Curtis penned hundreds of other songs. His compositions were covered by a diverse range of artists, including Keith Whitley, the Everly Brothers, Bing Crosby, Glen Campbell, Bruce Springsteen, and even the Grateful Dead. His contributions to the American songbook are vast and multifaceted, a testament to his musical versatility and creative brilliance.
Curtis, a childhood friend of Buddy Holly, played a significant role in the early rock and roll scene. His journey, from playing guitar with Holly in the 1950s to opening for Elvis Presley, demonstrates his place in the birth of rock 'n' roll. His induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012, as a member of The Crickets, cemented his status as a pivotal figure in music history. Even after leaving the Crickets before Buddy Holly's tragic death, Curtis rejoined the band, contributing to the iconic album "In Style with the Crickets," which included "I Fought the Law."
His daughter, Sarah Curtis, shared the news of his passing on his Facebook page, stating he had been suddenly ill. While the world mourns the loss of this exceptional talent, the music of Sonny Curtis will continue to inspire and resonate with generations to come. His legacy as a songwriter, musician, and pioneer of rock 'n' roll will forever be etched in the annals of music history.
---
Originally published at: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/obituaries/sonny-curtis-crickets-penned-mary-tyler-moore-show-theme-dies-88-rcna232623
