Johnny Mercer
Johnny Mercer
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Johnny Mercer was born John Herndon Mercer on November 18, 1909, in Savannah, Georgia. He is often referred to as "Mister Songwriter" due to his prolific output of hit songs.
Birth and Death Dates
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November 18, 1909 – June 25, 1976
Nationality and Profession(s)
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American lyricist, composer, singer, songwriter, and record producer. Mercer is widely regarded as one of the most successful songwriters in American history, with over 1,000 published songs to his credit.
Early Life and Background
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Growing up in a musical family, Mercer was exposed to music from an early age. His father, George Keith Mercer, was a lawyer and a musician who encouraged Johnny's love of music. Mercer attended the Georgia Institute of Technology but left without graduating to pursue a career in music. He began writing songs while working as a bank clerk.
Major Accomplishments
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Mercer's songwriting skills quickly gained recognition, and he became one of the most sought-after songwriters in Hollywood. His collaborations with other notable songwriters, such as Harold Arlen, Hoagy Carmichael, and Jimmy Van Heusen, resulted in some of his most famous works, including "Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive," "Any Place I Hang My Hat Is Home," and "Jeepers Creepers." Mercer was awarded three Academy Awards for Best Original Song: "In the Cool, Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening" (1951), "On the Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe" (1946), and "You'll Never Know" (1943).
Notable Works or Actions
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Mercer's songs were recorded by numerous artists, including Bing Crosby, Billie Holiday, and Ella Fitzgerald. His contributions to the development of popular music are immense, with many of his songs becoming timeless classics. Mercer was also a successful singer and released several albums, showcasing his own vocal talents.
Impact and Legacy
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Johnny Mercer's impact on American music is undeniable. He played a crucial role in shaping the Great American Songbook, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of songwriters and musicians. Mercer's influence extends beyond his own work; he helped establish Savannah as a hub for music and arts.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Mercer's ability to craft memorable melodies and lyrics has made him one of the most quoted and remembered figures in American music history. His songs have become an integral part of popular culture, with many remaining relevant today. Mercer's legacy is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his role as a pioneer in the development of American songwriting.
Quotes by Johnny Mercer

When my life is throughAnd the angels ask me to recallThe thrill of them allThen I shall tell themI remember you.

So you met someone who set you back on your heels – goody, goodyYou met someone and now you know how it feels – goody, goody.

The days of wine and roses laugh and run away like a child at playThrough the meadow land toward a closing doorA door marked “nevermore” that wasn’t there before.

She’s nobody’s fool so I’m playing it cool as can be. I’ll give it a whirl but I ain’t for no girl catching me.

When the sweet talkin’s done, a man is a two face, a worrisome thing who’ll leave you to sing the blues in the night.

Fools rush in, where wise men never go, But wise men never fall in love, so how are they to know?



