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'You were a king': Tributes pour in as legendary composer Burt Bacharach dies at 94

The legendary musician was known for his orchestral pop style featured in hits including 'I Say a Little Prayer'

KANSAS CITY MISSOURI: Burt Bacharach, a legendary composer, passed away on Wednesday, February 8, at his Los Angeles home, his publicist said in a statement, adding that, Bacharach died of natural causes. He was 94.

The pianist was a six-time Grammy Award winner and had won three Oscars for his music in the films Arthur and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. The legendary musician was known for his orchestral pop style featured in hits including “I Say a Little Prayer”.

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'Farewell Burt Bacharach, you were a king'

As the shocking news of Burt Bacharach's passing away spread, celebrities took to social media to express condolences and pay tribute to the prolific composer. Some of Bacharach’s most recognizable songs include “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head“ (1969), “(They Long to Be) Close to You” (1970), and “That’s What Friends Are For“ (1986). He also composed “The Look of Love”, which appeared in the 1967 film Casino Royale.

"One of the greatest songwriting legacies in the history of ever. Farewell Burt Bacharach, you were a king," Tim Burgess English musician, and singer-songwriter wrote on Twitter as he posted a series of tweets of famous songs and soundtracks composed by Burt. "Burt Bacharach created so much joy and beauty with his music. His partnership with Dionne Warwick and Hal David was magical." Alex Abads, a Vox correspondent, wrote. "RIP Burt Bacharach…" Rex Chapman wrote. He added in a following tweets, Rest in Peace, Burt Bacharach. Along with Carole Bayer Sager — he wrote “That's What Friends Are For"…" "A sad day and a huge loss"

'I’ll always think of Burt Bacharach as the king of melody'

"This one hurts," Stephen Bishop shared in a detailed Facebook post. He wrote, "It's hard to process that one of the greatest songwriters of our generation is gone. I’ll always think of Burt Bacharach as the king of melody. He added, "In 1981, I was given the opportunity to write a song with Burt and Carole Bayer Sager for the film “Arthur.” The song was called “It’s Only Love,” they had me do the vocals, and it’s featured on the film soundtrack. Burt, your songs are timeless. I am so honored to have known you and written a song with you."

'Farewell Genius...'

"Farewell Genius.. RIP," singer, songwriter, and bandleader Simply Red wrote. English TV Presenter and DJ Jo Whiley wrote, "Aw shucks. One of the greatest composers and songwriters to have lived. This Guy’s in Love With You has always been one of my favorite songs & there are so many more.. such an honor to have met Burt Bacharach...Thank you for the music #burtbacharach #class." Samuel West wrote, "Raising a martini glass to the songwriting genius of #BurtBacharach (1928 - 2023). I wrote down the first 25 of his songs I could think of. I find it impossible even to read the titles without hearing the tunes. And such great tunes..." Matt Pinfield said, "Burt Bacharach has passed away. He was an absolute musical genius and gifted us with so many songs in his amazing career. Along with lyricist Hal David, Burt wrote some of the greatest pop songs of the 1960s. A legend has left us." "Peace and love, Burt Bacharach." Wrote Bangles' Susanna Hoffs.

"He had a hell of a ride but we’ll miss him just the same @BurtBacharach left a musical legacy unparalleled his catalog from Say A Little Prayer to Walk On By To Do You Know The Way To San Jose had a groovy romantic vibe that made you fall in love over & over," Sandra Bernhard wrote. 

His songs will live forever

"It is with saddened hearts that we share the passing of our father, husband, and friend. He gave the world so much, and we are eternally grateful. The music is always there, so please keep listening. We send our love from team Bacharach because that’s what friends are for," a Family announcement was shared on Facebook. "I’m so sad to hear about Burt Bacharach. Burt was a hero of mine and very influential on my work. He was a giant in the music business. His songs will live forever. Love & Mercy to Burt’s family." Brian Wilson wrote while also sharing a picture. 

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