Johnny Mercer, an iconic American lyricist and singer, has left an indelible mark on the world of music. This article highlights ten of the best songs by Johnny Mercer, capturing the essence of his lyrical genius and timeless melodies.

His prolific career spanned decades, during which he penned some of the most memorable and enduring songs in American music history.

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The Best Johnny Mercer Songs (Top 10)

You can find Johnny Mercer’s songs on Spotify and Tidal. You can also find many of his songs sheet music online on Musescore.

1. Moon River (From BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY’S)

Moon River is arguably one of Mercer’s masterpieces. Its evocative lyrics and haunting melody have captivated audiences since it was first performed by Audrey Hepburn in the movie “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

The song’s elegant simplicity and emotional depth showcase Mercer’s lyricism at its finest.

2. Autumn Leaves

Originally a French song, Mercer added English lyrics, creating a beautifully nostalgic tune. Mercer’s lyrics complement the melancholic melody, crafting a song that speaks to the heart and soul, making it one of his memorable works.

This song has been covered by countless jazz artists over the decades since it was written, including famous musicians such as Bill Evans, Ella Fitzgerald, and John Coltrane. You can listen to Autumn Leaves by Johnny Mercer on Spotify.

3. Days of Wine and Roses (From Days of Wine and Roses)

A poignant song that beautifully captures the theme of love and loss, “Days of Wine and Roses” showcases Mercer’s ability to convey deep emotions through his lyrics, leaving a lasting impact on listeners. You can listen to Days of Wine and Roses on Spotify.

4. Accentuate the Positive

A feel-good song that exudes optimism, “Accentuate the Positive” is an uplifting tune that showcases Mercer’s versatility as a songwriter, proving his prowess in creating songs that resonate and inspire.

This song also features in the popular game Fallout 4, which features popular wartime jazz songs. This helped to give the song a resurgence in popularity.

5. Laura (From LAURA)

In “Laura”, Mercer’s evocative lyrics paint a vivid picture. Paired with a haunting melody, this song stands as a testament to Mercer’s extraordinary talent in storytelling through music. You can listen to Laura on Spotify.

6. Skylark

“Skylark” showcases Mercer’s poetic lyricism. It’s a beautiful and hopeful song, where the dreamy lyrics and melody interweave perfectly, creating a timeless classic. You can listen to Skylark, which is also the name of the album by Johnny Mercer, on Spotify.

7. Satin Doll

A collaboration with Duke Ellington, “Satin Doll” exudes elegance and charm. Mercer’s playful and clever lyrics fit perfectly with the song’s jazzy melody, making it a standout piece in his catalog.

8. Summer Wind

Mercer’s “Summer Wind” carries a smooth, nostalgic air, illustrating his capability to imbue songs with a unique atmosphere and emotion, making listeners travel through time and memories. You can listen to Sumer Wind by Johnny Mercer on Spotify.

9. Hooray for Hollywood (from HOLLYWOOD HOTEL)

A tribute to the glamour and excitement of Hollywood, this song is lively and catchy, reflecting Mercer’s talent for crafting songs that capture the spirit and essence of a moment or place.

10. On the Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe (from THE HARVEY GIRLS)

This song is a delightful and vibrant number. Mercer’s lyrics are filled with energy and color, highlighting his knack for creating memorable and engaging songs that resonate with a wide audience. You can listen to this song on Spotify, sung by Judy Garland.

FAQ

1. What Songs Did Johnny Mercer Win Academy Awards For?

Mercer won four Academy Awards for Best Original Song and received several nominations. He was also honored with other awards and recognitions for his contributions to music. Mercer also won two Grammy awards during his career.

His Academy Awards include:

• “On the Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe” with Harry Warren for The Harvey Girls, 1946
• “In the Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening” with Hoagy Carmichael for Here Comes the Groom, 1951
• “Moon River” with Henry Mancini for Breakfast at Tiffany’s, 1961
• “Days of Wine and Roses” with Henry Mancini for Days of Wine and Roses, 1962

2. Who Were Johnny Mercer’s Usual Collaborators in Songwriting?

Johnny Mercer collaborated with a multitude of composers and musicians throughout his career, some notable collaborators include Harold Arlen, Henry Mancini, Hoagy Carmichael, and Jerome Kern.

3. Where Did Johnny Mercer Grow Up?

Johnny Mercer was born on November 18, 1909, in Savannah, Georgia. His father was a wealthy attorney with a real estate business, and he went to Woodbury Forrest School in Virginia.

4. What Genre Is Johnny Mercer Best Known For?

Johnny Mercer was versatile, contributing to various genres such as pop, jazz, and show tunes. He is perhaps best known for his Great American Songbook contributions and his work in popular and film music.

5. Did Johnny Mercer Only Write Lyrics?

While Mercer is primarily known as a lyricist, he was also a capable composer and performer. He composed music for some songs and had a successful career as a singer.

6. Did Johnny Mercer Perform His Songs?

Yes, Mercer was also a singer, and he did perform and recorded many of his songs as well as others. His singing career was quite successful, adding another dimension to his musical legacy.

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Conclusion

These are just a few examples of Johnny Mercer’s extraordinary musical contributions. His ability to craft lyrics that resonate with emotion, wit, and timeless appeal has solidified Mercer’s place as one of the greatest lyricists in American music history.