Barry Mason
Barry Mason MBE, born John Barry Mason on July 12, 1935, in Wigan, Lancashire, England, was a renowned English singer and songwriter. He passed away on April 16, 2021, at the age of 85. Mason was a prolific songwriter, best known for his collaborations with Les Reed, which resulted in some of the most memorable pop ballads of the 1960s. His songwriting credits include hits such as "Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)", "The Last Waltz", "I Pretend", and the dramatic "Delilah", famously recorded by Tom Jones.
Mason's career began in the 1960s, and he was active in the music industry until 2021. He wrote songs that topped the UK Singles Chart, including "The Last Waltz" by Engelbert Humperdinck and "I Pretend" by Des O'Connor. His work earned him numerous accolades, including five Ivor Novello Awards. Mason's songs have been recorded by a wide array of artists, including Tom Jones, Elvis Presley, Rod Stewart, and Barbra Streisand, showcasing his versatility and broad appeal.
In addition to his songwriting success, Mason founded his own music publishing company, Barry Mason Enterprises Ltd. He was recognized for his contributions to music with an appointment as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2020 Birthday Honours.
Mason's personal life included marriages to Sylvan Whittingham, Patricia Ellis, and Elizabeth Clifton, with whom he had children. His legacy continues through his extensive catalog of music that has left an indelible mark on the world of popular music.