Melodies Nelson

Nelson Riddle : “He gave new careers to Frank Sinatra and Linda Ronstadt.” This is a quote by Robert Windeler in a KCRW radio tribute to Nelson Riddle in 1985. Mr. Windeler goes on to say “Much of the best work of Ella Fitzgerald, Rosemary Clooney, and Peggy Lee was done in collaboration with him.” (Nelson’s children dedicate a great website to their dad, showing they dont resent for all having to wear suspenders when they were kids).

Space Age Pop : His biggest hits, though, were lighter pieces. Riddle had a knack for making his point through understatement that eluded Gleason. The first, “Lisbon Antigua,” was brought to his attention by the sister of Nat “King” Cole’s manager, and came out at the height of the wave of European covers. His recordings never quite brought Riddle the success he was looking for, though. His earnings as an arranger paled compared to Henry Mancini’s royalties from originals like “Moon River” and “Days of Wine and Roses,” and Riddle felt something of a rivalry with Mancini throughout their careers.

The Nelson Riddle Collection : In 1998, the University of Arizona received an endowment on behalf of the estate of the late Naomi Riddle, widow of the famed composer and arranger Nelson Riddle. It comprised the entire personal collection of Nelson Riddle’s arrangements plus his Oscar, Grammies, photographs, and correspondence. In addition, funds were set aside to create the Nelson Riddle Endowed Chair in Music, and the Naomi Riddle Fund for the Advancement of the School.

Amazon : The Life of Nelson Riddle by Peter J. Levinson “Ya know, all those years I never saw Nelson smile or laugh,” remarked Emil Richards, a vibraharpist and percussionist who recorded frequently under Nelson’s leadership…”

Christopher Riddle : My father worked with Frank Sinatra for the first time in 1953. Sinatra’s career was in a professional limbo at that time. Lee Gillette at Capitol Records thought it would be a good idea for Sinatra to work with the young arranger, but Frank was skeptical and wanted to work in New York with more familiar people and surroundings. Fortunately, Gillette stuck to his guns and ….

Hollywood Forever Memorial Park : Nelson Riddle – 1st.June 1921 – 6th.October 1985. Grave located in the New Beth Olam Mausoleum far front right from entrance. Cause of Death – Cardiac and Kidney failure.

Nelson Riddle on MySpace : The 6 avr. 2008 13:32, Harold Ross posted on Nelson Riddle’s page “Thanks for adding me! I heard your music since my first youth, (I was a Batman’s fan…) Your music and arrengement are incredible! Thanks for your friendship Nelson!” (Nelson did not post back but I am sure he read the contrib. Geniuses, you know, they never die).

Nelson Riddle on Wikipedia : Riddle had an extra-marital affair with singer Rosemary Clooney in the 1960’s, which contributed to the breakup of their respective marriages. [7] In 1968, Riddle separated from his wife Doreen; their divorce became official in 1970. A few months later he married Naomi Tenenholtz, then his secretary, with whom he would remain for the rest of his life.

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