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American songwriter and composer, best known for writing the jazz standard "Fly Me to the Moon". Born Howard Joseph Gustafson in Burlington, Iowa, Bart Howard adopted his stage name early in his career. He spent decades as a pianist and accompanist in New York City's cabaret scene before achieving international fame with his composition "Fly Me to the Moon" (originally titled "In Other Words"), written in 1954. The song became a massive hit after Frank Sinatra's 1964 recording associated with the Apollo missions. Howard's career was primarily focused on composing sophisticated cabaret and popular songs, though "Fly Me to the Moon" remains his enduring legacy. He lived for many years with his partner, composer and pianist John Musto.

• Howard reportedly sold the publishing rights to "Fly Me to the Moon" for a modest sum early in the song's life, long before it became a global phenomenon and a major income source.
• He worked for nearly 40 years as the accompanist for cabaret legend Mabel Mercer, significantly shaping his understanding of songwriting for intimate performance.
• Howard died at age 88 in Carmel, New York, due to complications following a stroke. His ashes were scattered near his home.
• Despite writing over 50 songs, he often expressed amusement and slight bemusement at being defined almost solely by "Fly Me to the Moon", though he appreciated its success and the royalties it provided.