We are saddened by the death of world renowned songwriter and visionary artist Allee Willis, who passed away at the age of 72 on December 24, 2019. Widely known for co-writing iconic hits such as Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September,” the Pointer Sisters’ “Neutron Dance” and the Pet Shop Boys’ “What Have I Done to Deserve This?” among many others, the longtime
#BMISongwriter also penned one of the most beloved television themes of all time, Friends’ “I’ll Be There For You.” For the stage, Willis notably co-wrote the Broadway hit musical, The Color Purple.
We spoke to Allee at this year’s Songwriters Hall of Fame ceremony where she gave us amazing advice for songwriters.
With a singular career spanning more than 40 years, Willis’ boundless creativity helped her make her mark not only through her music, but also as a visual and social artist, painter, director, pop and soul kitsch collector, comedian and performing artist.