Raymond Jessel

Raymond Jessel was a British-born American songwriter, composer, and lyricist whose career spanned Broadway, television, and cabaret. Born on October 16, 1929, in Cardiff, Wales, Jessel studied at the University of Wales before moving to Canada, where he pursued music studies at McGill University.

In the early 1960s, Jessel relocated to New York, where he collaborated with Marian Grudeff on musicals such as Baker Street (1965), a Sherlock Holmes-inspired show that brought him to Broadway. His warm, witty lyrics and melodic skill made him a sought-after collaborator.

Beyond theatre, Jessel wrote extensively for American television variety shows, working with stars like Carol Burnett and Dean Martin. His versatility allowed him to move seamlessly between theatrical songwriting and crafting musical comedy for TV audiences.

In later life, Jessel became a fixture in the Los Angeles cabaret scene, performing his own humorous songs well into his eighties. His late-career appearances, often featuring cheeky and surprising lyrics, earned him a new generation of fans.

Jessel died on July 17, 2015, in Los Angeles, remembered for his wit, charm, and ability to delight audiences across multiple entertainment mediums.