Jerry Leiber

Full biography Jerry Leiber

Jerry Leiber was an American songwriter and composer, born on April 25, 1933 in Baltimore, Maryland. He is best known for his prolific songwriting partnership with Mike Stoller, which spanned over six decades and produced numerous hits in diverse genres including rock and roll, R&B, and pop.

Leiber and Stoller became one of the most successful and influential songwriting duos of their time. They wrote and produced hits for some of the biggest musical acts of the 1950s and 1960s, including Elvis Presley, Ben E. King, the Coasters, and the Drifters. Some of their most famous hits include "Hound Dog," "Jailhouse Rock," "Yakety Yak," "Stand By Me," and "On Broadway."

In addition to his songwriting and composing, Leiber was also an accomplished producer and music industry executive. He co-founded Red Bird Records and Blue Cat Records in the 1960s, and worked with a variety of other artists and labels throughout his career.

Leiber's contributions to music have been widely recognized and celebrated. He and Stoller were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1985 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. Leiber received numerous other honors and awards throughout his career, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

Jerry Leiber passed away on August 22, 2011, leaving behind a rich legacy in music. His fierce creativity and impactful collaborations with Mike Stoller continue to influence and inspire musicians to this day.