Horace Ott, born on April 15, 1933, in St. Matthews, South Carolina, is an accomplished American jazz and R&B composer, arranger, record producer, conductor, and pianist. He developed his musical talents early, playing in his high school band and local jazz groups before attending South Carolina State University, where he graduated in 1955. After serving in the US Army, Ott moved to New York in 1958, where he initially worked in a factory while playing in nightclubs at night.

Ott's career took off when he began collaborating with songwriter Luther Dixon, leading to his first success with The Shirelles. He became a prolific arranger and songwriter, working with notable artists such as Jackie Wilson, Don Covay, and Nina Simone. One of his significant contributions was co-writing the classic "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood," famously recorded by Nina Simone and later The Animals.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Ott continued to make his mark in the music industry, arranging hits for a wide range of artists including Aretha Franklin, Eric Burdon, and The Village People. His work with The Village People produced iconic hits like "Y.M.C.A." and "Macho Man." Ott also contributed to Broadway musicals and worked with the Count Basie Orchestra.

In addition to his arranging and songwriting, Ott's discography includes collaborations with artists such as Rusty Bryant, Groove Holmes, Etta Jones, and Jimmy McGriff. His influence and contributions to jazz and R&B remain significant, with his work being recorded by numerous artists over the decades.