Barry Mann

Barry Mann is an American songwriter, composer, and occasional performer whose prolific career spans over six decades. Born on February 9, 1939, in Brooklyn, New York, he developed a love for music at an early age and began writing songs as a teenager. After attending the New York City College of Music, Mann entered the famed Brill Building scene in the late 1950s and quickly rose to prominence as one of the most influential figures in pop songwriting.

Mann achieved early success as both a writer and performer with his 1961 hit “Who Put the Bomp (in the Bomp, Bomp, Bomp),” a novelty song that humorously celebrated the doo-wop era. However, his most impactful work came through his songwriting partnership with lyricist and future wife Cynthia Weil. Together, they became one of the most successful and respected songwriting duos of the 20th century, penning anthems that blended emotional depth with commercial appeal.

The Mann-Weil catalog includes classics like “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’” (The Righteous Brothers), “On Broadway” (The Drifters), “We Gotta Get Out of This Place” (The Animals), “Make Your Own Kind of Music” (Mama Cass), and “Somewhere Out There” (from An American Tail), which earned them Golden Globe, Grammy, and Academy Award nominations. Their songs were recorded by legendary artists including Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, Linda Ronstadt, and Dolly Parton. With over 700 songs to his credit, Mann’s influence can be heard across rock, soul, R&B, and adult contemporary genres.

In addition to his work in popular music, Mann composed for film and television, contributing songs to projects like An American Tail and Oliver & Company. He and Weil also ventured into musical theatre, with their life and career featured in the 2014 Broadway jukebox musical Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, where Mann was portrayed as both a gifted composer and a key player in the golden age of pop songwriting.

Barry Mann has received numerous accolades, including induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame (1987) and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2010, alongside Weil). Known for his sophisticated melodies, versatility, and ability to craft timeless songs with emotional resonance, Mann remains one of the defining voices of American popular music. His enduring legacy lives on in the songs that continue to captivate audiences across generations.