Renowned singer and stage performer Steve Lawrence passed away on Thursday at the age of 88. His spokesperson, Susan DuBow, confirmed that Lawrence succumbed to complications from Alzheimer’s disease.
Steve Lawrence, often recognized for his musical partnership with his wife Eydie Gorme, played a pivotal role in preserving the essence of Tin Pan Alley amid the rise of rock music. Their enduring legacy as a musical duo spanned across various platforms, from talk shows to nightclubs and the vibrant stages of Las Vegas, drawing inspiration from legendary songwriters like George Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Jerome Kern.
Despite the emergence of rock ‘n’ roll, Lawrence remained steadfast in his commitment to the classic style of music epitomized by icons like Frank Sinatra. Reflecting on the changing landscape of music in 1957, Lawrence remarked, “Our audience knows we’re not going to load up on heavy metal or set fire to the drummer.”
Both Lawrence and Gorme enjoyed immense success individually, with Lawrence’s hit ballad “Go Away Little Girl” and Gorme’s lively “Blame It on the Bossa Nova” dominating the charts in the early 1960s. Their collective achievements propelled them to the forefront of the entertainment scene, captivating audiences with their timeless performances and charismatic stage presence.
Throughout the decades, Lawrence remained a fixture in the entertainment industry, making notable appearances on television shows like “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” “Gilmore Girls,” and “The Nanny.” He also ventured into stage and film, earning critical acclaim for his performances in productions such as “What Makes Sammy Run?” and “Stand Up and Be Counted.”
Beyond his professional endeavors, Lawrence cherished his role as a husband and father. Married to Eydie Gorme until her passing in 2013, Lawrence shared a deep bond with his family, despite enduring personal tragedies, including the loss of his son Michael to heart failure in 1986.
In remembrance of Steve Lawrence, his son David fondly remarked, “My dad was an inspiration to so many people. But, to me, he was just this charming, handsome, hysterically funny guy who sang a lot.” Lawrence’s indelible legacy as a performer and family man continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
