Nelson Riddle
Nelson Smock Riddle Jr. (June 1, 1921 – October 6, 1985) was an American arranger, composer, bandleader, and orchestrator whose career spanned from the 1940s to the 1980s. Born in Oradell, New Jersey, Riddle was the only surviving child of Marie Albertine Riddle and Nelson Smock Riddle. He began his musical education with piano lessons at age eight and trombone lessons at fourteen, eventually deciding to pursue a career in music.
Riddle's early career involved playing trombone and arranging for local dance bands, and he gained significant experience with the orchestras of Tommy Dorsey, Bob Crosby, Charlie Spivak, and Jerry Wald. He became a prominent arranger for Capitol Records in the 1950s, working with legendary vocalists such as Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, Judy Garland, Dean Martin, and Peggy Lee. His collaboration with Sinatra produced classic albums like "Songs for Swingin’ Lovers!" and "In the Wee Small Hours," which are considered benchmarks in popular music.
Riddle also achieved success with his instrumental hits, including "Lisbon Antigua" and the theme from the television series "Route 66." He composed themes for TV shows like "The Untouchables" and "Batman" and contributed to the music of several films and series. In the late 1970s, Riddle arranged a series of best-selling albums for Linda Ronstadt, which helped revive interest in classic American popular music.
Throughout his career, Riddle received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award and three Grammy Awards. He passed away in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 64, leaving behind a rich legacy in the world of music.
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