Carl Sigman was one of the most prolific and versatile American songwriters of the twentieth century. Born in Brooklyn, New York in 1909, he worked as both composer and lyricist across four decades, producing an extraordinary catalog of hits that crossed the boundaries of pop, jazz, and film music. His partnership with Bob Russell yielded Crazy He Calls Me, introduced by Billie Holiday in 1949 and since recognized as a classic vocal jazz standard. Sigman's range was remarkable, from the swing-era anthem Pennsylvania 6-5000 with Glenn Miller to the internationally beloved It's All In The Game, for which he wrote lyrics to a melody originally composed by future Vice President Charles G. Dawes. He penned English lyrics for several European hits including Arrivederci Roma, What Now My Love, and A Day In The Life Of A Fool. His work in film produced Where Do I Begin, the theme from Love Story, which became a worldwide hit in 1970. Other well-known songs include Ebb Tide, My Heart Cries For You, Careless Hands, and Enjoy Yourself. Sigman collaborated with leading figures including Duke Ellington, Tadd Dameron, Jimmy Van Heusen, and Francis Lai, and his songs were performed by virtually every major vocalist of the mid-twentieth century.
