September 7th 2024.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of renowned songwriter Will Jennings at the age of 80. Jennings, who co-wrote the iconic song "My Heart Will Go On," has left a lasting impact on the music industry and will be dearly missed.
Jennings' name became synonymous with the 1997 hit, made famous by Celine Dion's powerful vocals and its prominent placement in the blockbuster film Titanic. However, his contributions to the music world span far beyond that one song. He also wrote Eric Clapton's emotional ballad "Tears in Heaven" and collaborated with other legendary artists such as Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, and Diana Ross.
Throughout his illustrious career, Jennings' work has topped charts and earned him numerous accolades. He wrote Houston's number one hit "Didn't We Almost Have It All" and Manilow's chart-topping "Looks Like We Made It." His talent was recognized with six Grammy nominations and three wins. In 1982, he received his first Oscar for "Up Where We Belong," performed by Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes for the film An Officer and a Gentleman. And in 1997, his work on "My Heart Will Go On" earned him another Oscar, solidifying his place in music history.
But beyond his impressive accomplishments, Jennings was known for his kind and gentle spirit. As news of his passing spread, fellow musicians and fans alike paid tribute to him on social media. Pete Wolf, who had the privilege of working with Jennings, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, describing him as a "maestro" and a "brilliant mind." The outpouring of love and condolences serves as a testament to the impact Jennings had on those around him.
In an interview, Jennings once shared the inspiration behind "My Heart Will Go On," revealing that it was a meeting with a 101-year-old woman that sparked the idea. He wrote the song from the perspective of someone reflecting on a great love from their past, an approach that perfectly captured the essence of the film. And while the special effects and talented actors certainly played a part, it was the love story that truly resonated with audiences.
Jennings' talent and contributions to the music industry did not go unnoticed. In 2006, he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and later, the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. In 2023, his song catalogue was acquired by All Clear Music and the Fuji Music Group, further solidifying his legacy.
As we mourn the loss of a musical genius, we are reminded of the timeless melodies and heartfelt lyrics that Jennings has left behind. His impact will continue to be felt for generations to come. To honor Jennings' memory, his publisher has confirmed his passing to Variety, and has asked for privacy during this difficult time.
If you have a story or fond memory of Jennings, please share it with us. We would love to hear from you. Our thoughts are with his loved ones and all those who have been touched by his music.
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