Randy Newman

Randy Newman, born Randall Stuart Newman on November 28, 1943, in Los Angeles, California, is a highly acclaimed American singer-songwriter, composer, and pianist. With a career spanning over five decades, Newman has left an indelible mark on the music industry with his distinctive voice, sharp wit, and unparalleled songwriting skills.

Growing up in a family with a rich musical heritage—his uncles Alfred and Lionel Newman were renowned film composers—Randy Newman developed an early passion for music. He began playing piano as a child and soon discovered his knack for crafting clever and thought-provoking lyrics.

Newman's career took off in the 1960s when he started writing songs for other artists, including hits like "Mama Told Me Not to Come" for Three Dog Night. However, it was his solo work that truly showcased his unique talents. His self-titled debut album, released in 1968, introduced the world to his satirical and often humorous songwriting style.

Over the years, Newman's discography has explored a wide range of genres, including pop, rock, jazz, and classical. His distinctive voice and piano-driven compositions have earned him numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards. One of his most iconic works is the hit single "Short People," a satirical take on prejudice and discrimination.

Beyond his solo career, Newman has made significant contributions to the world of film scores. He has composed the music for numerous movies, earning Academy Awards for Best Original Song for "We Belong Together" from Toy Story 3 and "If I Didn't Have You" from Monsters, Inc.

Randy Newman's songs are known for their biting social commentary, keen observations, and a unique blend of humor and heart. His ability to tackle complex subjects with a touch of irony has solidified his status as one of the most respected and influential figures in the music industry. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, Randy Newman continues to captivate audiences with his timeless music and remains a revered figure in the world of songwriting and composition.

In addition to being one of our greatest American singer-songwriters and film composers, Newman long ago established himself among our sharpest and most caustic wits. His new album finds Newman singing and playing piano on powerful new solo versions of his early classics (“I Think It’s Going To Rain Today,” “Sail Away,” “You Can Leave Your Hat On”), his more recent gems (“The World Isn’t Fair,” “The Great Nations of Europe”) as well as a few examples of the Oscar-winning composer’s film music (themes from Avalon and Ragtime, as well as “When She Loved Me” from Toy Story 2) and even a favorite stray obscurity (“Let Me Go,” a song originally written for the 1972 Norman Lear movie The Pursuit of Happiness).