Hit songwriter Gerry Goffin died Thursday at his home in Los Angeles. He was 75.
As Radio.com notes, Goffin was the former husband of singer/songwriter Carole King. Together they wrote hits such as "Will You Love Me Tomorrow," "Take Good Care of My Baby," "Chains," "Keeps Your Hands of My Baby," and "The Loco-Motion" as well as hits from Kings 1971 album, Tapestry including "Smackwater Jack" and "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman."
He and King divorced in 1968, and he remarried in 1995.
Other hits he is credited with include "Theme From Mahogany (Do You Know Where You're Going To)," recorded by Diana Ross, "Saving All My Love For You," popularized by Whitney Houston, and "I've Got To Use My Imagination," by Gladys Knight and the Pips.
Along with posting messages to her Facebook page, King commented on her ex-husband's death in a statement, saying:
"Gerry Goffin was my first love. He had a profound impact on my life and the rest of the world. Gerry was a good man and a dynamic force, whose words and creative influence will resonate for generations to come. His legacy to me is our two daughters, four grandchildren, and our songs that have touched millions and millions of people, as well as a lifelong friendship. He will be missed by his wonderful wife Michele, his devoted manager, Christine Russell, his five children, and six grandchildren.
His words expressed what so many people were feeling but didn't know how to say. If you want to join his loved ones in honoring him, look at the names of the songwriters under the titles of songs. Among the titles associated with me, you'll often find Gerry's name next to mine."
Goffin was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with King in 1990. He penned seven Billboard Hot 100 chart-toppers and a total of 59 Top 40 hits.
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