Norman Gimbel

Norman Gimbel (1927–2018) was an Oscar- and Grammy-winning American lyricist celebrated for his ability to craft poignant, emotionally resonant lyrics across genres—from pop hits to television themes to beloved film songs. Born on November 16, 1927, in Brooklyn, New York, Gimbel grew up with a love of language and music. After studying English literature and honing his writing craft, he entered the world of songwriting in the 1940s, eventually becoming one of the most versatile and prolific lyricists of the 20th century.

Gimbel first gained prominence in the 1950s through his English-language adaptations of international songs. He wrote the English lyrics for “Sway” (originally a Mexican bolero) and “The Girl from Ipanema,” a Brazilian bossa nova classic that became a global sensation. His lyrical adaptation of Antonio Carlos Jobim’s melodies helped popularize bossa nova in the United States and around the world, showcasing Gimbel’s ability to preserve the mood and rhythm of foreign-language songs while giving them universal appeal.

In film, Gimbel reached the pinnacle of recognition when he won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1979 for “It Goes Like It Goes,” from the film Norma Rae. He was also nominated for the Oscar in 1973 for “Richard’s Window,” from Summer Wishes, Winter Dreams. Collaborating frequently with composer Charles Fox, the duo created several iconic songs for television, including theme songs for Happy Days, Laverne & Shirley, and Wonder Woman, as well as the Grammy-winning hit “Killing Me Softly with His Song,” first recorded by Roberta Flack and later reimagined by the Fugees.

Gimbel’s lyrics were marked by clarity, emotional depth, and accessibility. Whether writing about heartbreak, joy, nostalgia, or love, he had a gift for capturing human experience in simple yet profound language. His songs were recorded by some of the greatest artists of his time, including Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand, Astrud Gilberto, and Dionne Warwick, spanning pop, jazz, R&B, and adult contemporary.

Norman Gimbel passed away on December 19, 2018, at the age of 91. Over a career that spanned more than six decades, he left behind a legacy of songs that continue to resonate with audiences around the world. As a master lyricist, Gimbel gave voice to a wide emotional range and helped define the soundtrack of generations with timeless grace and humanity.