Sonny Curtis Rock Legend & Mary Tyler Moore Theme Song Writer, Dies

Sonny Curtis, a legendary figure in the world of rock and roll, has passed away at the age of 88. Known for writing the iconic song “I Fought the Law” and creating the unforgettable theme for “The Mary Tyler Moore Show”, Curtis left a lasting mark on music across generations. His wife, Louise, confirmed his death after more than 50 years of marriage, and his daughter shared that he became suddenly ill.

Throughout his long career, Curtis wrote hundreds of songs that were performed by famous musicians such as Bing Crosby, Bruce Springsteen, Glen Campbell, the Everly Brothers, and the Grateful Dead. His songs ranged from country hits like Keith Whitley’s “I’m No Stranger to the Rain” to timeless rock classics like “Walk Right Back.”

Early Life and Career with Buddy Holly

Born during the Great Depression in a small Texas town called Meadow, Curtis grew up on a cotton farm. He was a childhood friend of rock star Buddy Holly and started playing music alongside him in the 1950s. He even opened shows for Elvis Presley when Elvis was just beginning his career. Curtis’s songwriting talent emerged early, as he wrote hits like “Someday” for Webb Pierce and “Rock Around With Ollie Vee” for Holly while still a teenager.

Although Curtis initially left Holly’s band, The Crickets, he returned after Holly tragically died in a plane crash in 1959. He contributed to the 1960 album “In Style with the Crickets,” which included songs that would become classics, like “I Fought the Law” and “More Than I Can Say.” “I Fought the Law,” written in just one afternoon, gained worldwide popularity years later when it was covered by the Bobby Fuller Four, eventually becoming a Top 10 hit. Over time, artists from various genres, including punk, country, and rock, made their own versions of this song, making it one of Curtis’s most enduring legacies.

The Mary Tyler Moore Theme

In 1970, Curtis wrote another song that would stand the test of time. While working on commercial jingles, he was asked to create a theme song for a new TV show starring Mary Tyler Moore. Curtis wrote “Love Is All Around,” a song full of hope and positivity, which included the famous lyrics:

“Who can turn the world on with her smile? / Who can take a nothing day, and suddenly make it all seem worthwhile?”

The song quickly became a cultural touchstone, perfectly matching the image of Moore throwing her hat in the air at the start of each show. Curtis recorded the song himself after the producers’ first choice, Andy Williams, turned it down. The theme became so famous that other artists, including Sammy Davis Jr. and Joan Jett, also recorded their versions.

Later Career and Life

Curtis continued performing and recording for decades. He released solo albums like “Sonny Curtis” and “Spectrum”, and even scored a Top 20 country hit with “Good Ol’ Girls” in 1981. He remained active with The Crickets, collaborating with artists such as Eric Clapton and Graham Nash.

In addition to his musical achievements, Curtis expressed his opinions through songs like “The Real Buddy Holly Story,” which critiqued the 1978 biopic about Holly. He moved to Nashville in the mid-1970s, where he lived with his wife Louise and remained a key figure in the music scene. Curtis was honored with multiple awards, including induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1991, the Musicians Hall of Fame in 2007, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with The Crickets in 2012.

Sonny Curtis’s songs continue to inspire fans around the world. From the rebellious energy of “I Fought the Law” to the heartwarming optimism of the Mary Tyler Moore theme, his music has left an unforgettable mark on both rock and country music. Curtis will be remembered not only as a talented songwriter and performer but also as one of the pioneers who shaped the sound of modern music.