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American composer and arranger best known for his groundbreaking musical scores for the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) cartoon studio, particularly the Tom and Jerry series.Born in Russellville, Kentucky. Trained as a classical pianist and conductor. Led bands and orchestras for vaudeville and silent films. Joined MGM cartoon unit in 1934. Pioneered the integration of complex, original orchestral scores tailored to animation action. Composed over 100 scores for cartoons, primarily for directors William Hanna and Joseph Barbera. Retired in 1957. Known for blending classical, jazz, and dissonant modern techniques.

• Bradley's scores were highly sophisticated for cartoons, often using large orchestras and incorporating complex forms like fugues and symphonic structures. He frequently quoted classical composers like Wagner, Rossini, and Tchaikovsky, but integrated them seamlessly with original jazz and modern dissonant passages.
• He developed a unique approach called "mickey mousing," where the music precisely synchronized with the on-screen action, sound effects, and character movements, elevating it to an art form. His scores were integral to the humor and pacing of the cartoons.
• Despite the comedic context, Bradley considered his work serious composition. He stated, "Cartoon music is now, and always has been, one of the most neglected branches of the musical art." He often expressed frustration that the music wasn't taken more seriously outside the animation studio.
• A significant controversy surrounds his later views. After retiring, Bradley reportedly expressed disillusionment with cartoon music, calling it "musical wastebasket" work in a 1957 interview, a stark contrast to his earlier dedication and innovation. This quote is often cited but needs contextualization within his career frustrations.
• He died of leukemia in 1977 in Los Angeles, California. Despite his later comments, his innovative work is now highly regarded by animation historians and film music scholars, recognized for its complexity, energy, and influence on later animation scoring.