Johnny Mandel was a highly acclaimed American composer and arranger best known for his work in film and television. He was born on November 23, 1925, and passed away on June 29, 2020. Here are some interesting facts about Johnny Mandel and his iconic composition, "Suicide is Painless":
Composition for MAS*H: "Suicide is Painless" is perhaps Mandel's most famous composition, serving as the theme song for the popular television series MAS*H. The song's lyrics were written by Mike Altman, the son of the film's director, Robert Altman.
Film and TV Scores: Mandel had a successful career composing scores for numerous films and television shows. In addition to MAS*H, he worked on films such as "The Sandpiper" (1965), "The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming" (1966), and "The Verdict" (1982).
Oscar Winner: Johnny Mandel won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "The Shadow of Your Smile" from the film "The Sandpiper" in 1966. He also received multiple Grammy Awards for his work.
Versatility in Music: Mandel was known for his versatility in musical styles, seamlessly moving between jazz, pop, and classical genres. His arrangements were often praised for their sophistication and originality.
Early Career: Mandel began his career as a trumpeter and trombonist before transitioning to arranging and composing. He collaborated with some of the jazz world's biggest names, including Count Basie and Frank Sinatra.
Collaborations with Sinatra: Johnny Mandel had a close and fruitful collaboration with Frank Sinatra. He arranged and conducted albums for Sinatra, including the critically acclaimed "Ring-A-Ding-Ding!" (1961) and "Sinatra's Swingin' Session!!!" (1961).
Legacy: Johnny Mandel left a lasting impact on the world of music, and his compositions continue to be celebrated and performed. His influence extends beyond film and television, as he made significant contributions to the broader landscape of American music.
It's important to note that "Suicide is Painless" gained widespread recognition through its association with MAS*H, but the song's title and lyrics stand in stark contrast to the generally lighthearted and comedic tone of the television series. The instrumental version used as the theme is more widely recognized than the original version with lyrics.