Lyricist, songwriter, and record producer who brought Savannah's musical soul to the world
Savannah's Musical Son
Lyricist, singer, songwriter, and record producer are among the titles used to describe Johnny Mercer's career. Born in 1909, Mercer grew up here in Savannah, Georgia, where he spent his early years in life. He was born to George Anderson Mercer, an attorney and real estate professional, and Lillian Elizabeth, who worked as George's secretary.
Musical Achievements
- Grammy Awards for "Moon River" (1961) and "Days of Wine and Roses"
- Co-founder of Capitol Records with legendary artists
- Over 1,500 songs written across four-decade career
- Collaborated with Nat King Cole, Bing Crosby, and Jack Teagarden
- Buried in Bonaventure Cemetery, Savannah
Mercer Williams House Connection
One of Savannah's historic landmarks, the Mercer Williams House Museum was constructed for General Hugh Mercer, connecting Johnny Mercer to one of Savannah's most famous architectural treasures.
Early Musical Gifts
His musical career dates back to his early childhood, with his family members reporting his penchant for song and music since he was months old. Mercer participated in church choirs as a pre-teen, and was heavily involved in the music scene. His attempts at learning musical instruments were unsuccessful despite his wishes to become a well rounded composer.
Mercer began attending the Woodbury School in Virginia when he was 17 years old. However, his father's career took a turn for the worst and he was unable to fund Mercer's continuing studies. At 19 years old, Mercer moved to New York to pursue a career in acting, but quickly discovered that this was not his specialty.
Broadway Breakthrough
While getting few and far in between acting gigs, he wrote the lyrics to a song that was sung in Broadway's "The Garrick Gaieties of 1930." This earned him popularity, and by 1932, he got a job singing for the Paul Whiteman Band.
"Lazybones" (1933)
Their hit song earned him critical acclaim and began his extensive career as a songwriter and lyricist. His love of jazz music and the blues aligned perfectly with the rising popularity of these genres.
Hollywood Success and Challenges
Career Achievements
Upon relocating to Hollywood in 1933, he began to write lyrics for songs to be used in movies. His singing career continued and flourished, and he went on to record with prominent artists like Jack Teagarden and Bing Crosby.
Recording Empire
As his career progressed, he founded multiple recording studios, including Capitol Records in Hollywood, California and Cowboy Records in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
His recording studios saw some of today's most renowned artists, like Nat King Cole, and he himself recorded some of his own tunes.
Personal Struggles
Mercer was known for his charm, and pleasant character throughout his life, but being acquainted with this newfound crowd changed that. In Hollywood, he was known for causing outbursts while heavily drinking, something he did not previously engage in.
Grammy Recognition
Mercer won a multitude of awards throughout the years for his lyrics on songs like "Moon River" (1961) and the title song for the film "Days of Wine and Roses."
Photo of (from left) Paul Weston, Jo Stafford and Johnny Mercer going over new music arrangements for Jo Stafford. Mercer was the owner and founder of Capitol Records, Weston was employed there as both an artist and head of recording. Jo Stafford was an artist under contract to the company.
Johnny Mercer wrote songs throughout four decades, before learning of an inoperable brain tumor that had been giving him headaches for quite some time. Knowing of his imminent death, he had planned to have his friend Sammy Cahn take over his ongoing projects at the time.
On June 25, 1976, Johnny Mercer passed away in Los Angeles, California.
Enduring Legacy
Mercer's legacy has since been honored with high-esteemed awards being attributed in his name, and posthumous award nominations for his work continue to recognize his contributions to American music and culture.
Grammy Winner
Perhaps his most famous composition, earning critical acclaim and multiple awards.
Title song for the acclaimed film, showcasing his talent for cinematic lyrics.
The hit that launched his career and established him as a major lyricist.
Born to George Anderson Mercer and Lillian Elizabeth in Savannah, Georgia.
1926 - Woodbury School
Attended Woodbury School in Virginia until financial difficulties forced him to leave.
1928 - New York Career
Moved to New York at age 19 to pursue acting, discovered songwriting talent instead.
1930 - Broadway Success
Wrote lyrics for "The Garrick Gaieties of 1930," earning recognition in musical theater.
1932-1933 - Paul Whiteman Band
Joined Paul Whiteman Band, achieved breakthrough with "Lazybones" hit song.
1933 - Hollywood Era
Relocated to Hollywood, began writing lyrics for movies and founding record labels.
1961 - "Moon River" Grammy
Won Grammy Award for his most famous composition, cementing his legacy.
1976 - Legacy Lives On
Passed away in Los Angeles, leaving behind over 1,500 songs and an enduring musical legacy.