Burt Bacharach died on Wednesday at the age of 94, as reports said on Thursday.
The composer left behind a tall pile of incredible, listenable songs that were smooth and lyrical, especially when writing with the similarly legendary Hal David. He’s also an Oscar winner for a couple of tunes you’ll recognize from movies like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Arthur and one that was in Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery.
What are they, if you don’t know? That’s what this post is for, a look at some of the best songs Bacharach wrote in his storied career, so many of them hits:
1
I Say a Little Prayer
Obviously, Dionne Warwick’s version is amazing, but so is Aretha’s.
2
What the World Needs Now is Love
Here’s his cameo in Austin Powers.
3
Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head
A lovely tune that was the soundtrack to a fun scene in Butch Cassidy.
Bonus: Ben Folds Five did a great cover.
4
The Look of Love
A fantastic song.
5
One Less Bell to Answer
6
(They Long to Be) Close to You
Gorgeous.
7
This Guy's in Love With You
Sweet.
8
Walk On By
I love every note of this.
9
Alfie
Barbra Streisand’s version is so, so good.
10
Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do)
Tell me you can listen to this and NOT have it stuck in your head.
