Rock & Roll Icon Sonny Curtis, Songwriter of 'I Fought The Law' and 'Love Is All Around,' Passes Away at 86

The music world mourns the passing of a true icon, Sonny Curtis, who died at the age of 86. A multifaceted talent, Curtis carved an indelible path through rock & roll, country, and pop culture, leaving behind a legacy woven into the fabric of American entertainment. His passing marks the end of an era, but his songs will undoubtedly continue to resonate with generations to come.

Born in Meadow, Texas, in 1937, Sonny Curtis’s journey into music began with a friendship that would shape history.

He was a close confidant and early bandmate of Buddy Holly, playing alongside him in various early configurations. Though not an original Cricket, Curtis stepped into a pivotal role, joining the band after Holly's tragic death in 1959. This period saw him contribute significantly to The Crickets' sound, ensuring their music lived on, even as they navigated the immense loss of their frontman.

Curtis's songwriting prowess became evident with the creation of one of rock & roll’s most enduring anthems: "I Fought The Law." Penned in 1958, the song gained widespread fame through The Bobby Fuller Four's iconic 1966 rendition and was later famously covered by The Clash in 1979, becoming a punk rock staple.

Its rebellious spirit and catchy chorus cemented its place in music history, proving Curtis’s remarkable ability to craft timeless narratives that transcend genres and generations.

Beyond the raw energy of "I Fought The Law," Curtis showcased his remarkable versatility with "Love Is All Around," the beloved theme song for "The Mary Tyler Moore Show." This instantly recognizable tune, with its uplifting melody and optimistic lyrics, became synonymous with the groundbreaking television series of the 1970s.

It perfectly encapsulated the show's spirit of independence and hope, etching Curtis’s name into the annals of television history as well as music.

Throughout his extensive career, Sonny Curtis was recognized for his exceptional contributions. He was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1991 and the Musicians Hall of Fame in 2014, receiving the prestigious “Nashville Cats” award for his prolific session work and songwriting.

His influence stretched across numerous artists, including Waylon Jennings, Andy Williams, and Sammy Davis Jr., all of whom recorded his compositions.

Sonny Curtis was more than just a songwriter; he was a craftsman of melodies and a wordsmith who captured the human experience with both defiance and warmth.

His passing leaves a void, but his extraordinary body of work ensures his spirit will live on. We remember Sonny Curtis not just for the songs he gave us, but for the profound joy and connection he brought to millions through his art.