Lyricist Richard Adler Dies, Aged 90

He died at his Southampton, New York home on Thursday (21Jun12), according to reports.

Adler, who is perhaps best known for creating songs like Rags to Riches and Whatever Lola Wants, was born in the Big Apple in 1921. After graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the composer served in the U.S. Naval Reserve during World War II.

Upon leaving the military, he struck up a working relationship with fellow lyricist Jerry Ross.

Together the two made hits of Rags to Riches, which became a chart-topping hit for Tony Bennett, and Heart, which was eventually recorded by Eddie Fisher. The pair also wrote the music and lyrics to Broadway shows Damn Yankees and The Pajama Game, both of which were honoured with Tony Awards for Best Musical.

Upon his pal Ross' death in 1955, Adler teamed up with Robert Allen and composed Doris Day's hit 1958 tune Everybody Loves a Lover.

In addition, the Songwriters Hall of Fame member also staged former U.S. President John F. Kennedy's infamous 1962 birthday celebration, during which the politician was serenaded by Marilyn Monroe.