Randy Newman

Randy Newman
Newman in 2012
Background information
Birth name	Randall Stuart Newman
Born	(1943-11-28) November 28, 1943 Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Occupation(s)	Singer songwriter arranger pianist composer conductor orchestrator
Years active	1961–present
Spouse(s)	Roswitha Schmale ​ ​ (m. 1967; div. 1985)​ Gretchen Preece ​ (m. 1990)​
Website	randynewman.com

Biography

Randy Newman is an American singer-songwriter, composer, and pianist known for his distinctive voice, sharp wit, and poignant storytelling. Born on November 28, 1943, in Los Angeles, California, Newman grew up in a family of film composers, which deeply influenced his musical path. He studied music at UCLA and began his career as a songwriter in the 1960s, penning hits for artists like Dusty Springfield and Gene Pitney before emerging as a solo artist.

Newman's early solo albums, such as Sail Away (1972) and Good Old Boys (1974), showcased his unique blend of satire, Americana, and orchestral pop. His songs often adopt ironic or controversial personas, tackling themes like racism, politics, and American identity with both humor and insight. Notable tracks include “Short People,” “Political Science,” and “Louisiana 1927.”

In addition to his solo work, Newman became one of Hollywood’s most respected film composers. He has scored numerous films for Pixar and other studios, including Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., Cars, and The Princess and the Frog. His film music is noted for its emotional depth, character-driven melodies, and lyrical sophistication. He has won two Academy Awards, three Emmys, and seven Grammys.

Despite his modest commercial success as a performer, Newman is widely respected by critics and fellow musicians. He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2002 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013.

Known for blending cynicism with compassion, Randy Newman remains a singular voice in American music. Whether writing tender ballads or biting social commentary, his work reflects a deep understanding of human nature and a lifelong dedication to the craft of songwriting. He continues to perform and compose, maintaining a legacy that bridges pop, classical, and cinematic music.

Music (likes)

BBC's Desert Island Discs (2008)

• String Quartet No. 16 in F major, Op. 135 – Ludwig van Beethoven
• Goodbyes – Alfred Newman
• The Door – George Jones
• The Stampede – Fletcher Henderson
• Sacrificial Dance (from The Rite of Spring) – Igor Stravinsky
• Symphony No. 15 in A major - 1st movement – Dmitry Shostakovich
• Symphony No. 9 in D major - 4th movement – Gustav Mahler
• Come Rain or Come Shine – Ray Charles

Literature (likes)

Miscellaneous

• The Divine Comedy - Dante Alighieri