Gamble And Huff Mourn Jerry Leiber’s Passing

Philly soul songwriting legends Gamble and Huff have shared their thoughts on the late Jerry Leiber in a message sent out to the press.

Says Leon Huff:

“Jerry Lieber was a great inspiration and was vital to the start of my songwriting career. I also had the fortunate opportunity to play piano on many Leiber & Stoller recording sessions as a musician in the early days. When I had dreams of being a producer, I met Leiber & Stoller in the Brill Building when they called me to play on ‘Boy From New York City.’ I was so nervous, but when I started grooving, that’s when I really settled down, because Jerry and Mike cut some really groovy records. That was a great time for me as a studio musician. I’ll never forget Leiber & Stoller because they helped me get the knack of the studios. Jerry will be missed.”

Adds Kenneth Gamble:

“I admire him as one of the great songwriters of our time. All of his songs – from Elvis Presley and the Coasters straight through to Smokey Joe’s Café – were a testament to his stature. As a songwriting team, when you work together so long and one of you passes, the partner loses a person with a truly special connection. We send our condolences to Michael Stoller, their families and their friends.”