Mel Leven, a notable composer and lyricist, was born on November 11, 1914, in Chicago. His early passion for songwriting was interrupted in 1941 when he served in the U.S. Air Corps, where he was stationed in Nome, Alaska, to instruct Russian pilots on P39 fighter planes. After World War II, Leven relocated to Los Angeles and resumed his songwriting career. In the 1950s, he wrote for United Productions of America, contributing to the Mr. Magoo cartoons. His notable works include "Every Time" for Peggy Lee, "Commoners Boogy" for the Andrew Sisters, and songs for artists like Nat King Cole and Dean Martin.

Leven's talents caught the attention of Walt Disney, leading to his involvement in Disney projects. He co-wrote songs for the stop-action short "Noah's Ark" and the "DISNEYLAND" TV series. His most famous contribution was "Cruella De Vil" for "101 Dalmatians" (1961), a song composed quickly yet became iconic. Leven also adapted and wrote new lyrics for "Babes in Toyland" (1961), which was nominated for an Academy Award®. He collaborated with Ward Kimball on "It's Tough to Be a Bird," which won the 1969 Academy Award® for Best Short Subject.

Leven continued his work in film and television, contributing to "Big Blue Marble" and various commercial jingles. His work earned him two Emmy® Awards, two Peabody Awards®, and accolades from the Cannes Film Festival. Residing in Studio City, California, Leven remains active in writing comedic songs in the Big Band style.