Broadway composer Charles Strouse dies at 96

Charles Strouse, a prolific Broadway composer known for his work on musicals such as 'Annie,' 'Bye Bye Birdie,' and 'Applause,' passed away at the age of 96 in his New York City home. His illustrious career spanned over 50 years, during which he created more than a dozen Broadway musicals, film scores, and even the iconic theme song 'Those Were the Days' from the sitcom 'All in the Family.' Born in New York and passionate about music from a young age, Strouse pursued formal education at prestigious institutions including the Eastman School of Music and Tanglewood Music Center. Strouse's career took off in 1960 with 'Bye Bye Birdie,' a production that showcased his musical talents alongside lyricist Lee Adams and librettist Michael Stewart. His ability to craft catchy tunes was evident in favorites like 'Tomorrow' from 'Annie' and 'Put on a Happy Face' from 'Bye Bye Birdie.' Strouse's music not only entertained audiences but also influenced various artists, including Jay-Z, who incorporated elements of Strouse's work in his Grammy-winning album. Despite experiencing failures with some musicals, including 'All-American' and 'Bring Back Birdie,' Strouse's legacy remained strong. His works, even the less successful ones, showcased impressive compositions and continued to attract audiences. In effective storytelling and lyricism, he helped others achieve stardom, taking care to include notable performers such as Sammy Davis Jr. in adaptations of his songs. In his later years, Strouse displayed a commitment to the arts, actively engaging with touring productions of his shows and demonstrating a profound emotional connection to his work. His passing is a significant loss to the Broadway community and musical theater as a whole, leaving behind a rich legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of composers and theater artists.