Burt Bacharach won America’s hearts and ears with a career in music that spanned over 70 years. His influence on American music since 1950 as a pianist, composer, producer, and songwriter is rarely matched, much less surpassed. But as great as his contributions to the arts have been, they almost never were. Because before Bacharach was creating songs and collaborating with the likes of Dionne Warwick, Tom Jones, B. J. Thomas, The Carpenters, and Aretha Franklin, he was a Soldier in the late 1940s. This meant his time during active duty came as the Korean War was just about to begin. Related: Before He Was a Star, Young Tony Bennett Was a Hero

Is Burt Bacharach Still Alive?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9wa9EbbZvk Sadly, Burt Bacharach, the legendary composer of pop songs, died at 94 on February 8, 2023. His legacy, however, will continue on through his service in the military and obviously, through his impact on American music. Anyone that lives to be 94 is sure to have experienced a lot within their lifetime. But even among those reaching this momentous milestone, Bacharach had lived quite a life during his time here on Earth. His illustrious music career is well documented. Songs such as “What the World Needs Now Is Love,” “I’ll Never Fall In Love Again,” and “Come Touch the Sun” have solidified themselves in pop culture. But if not for those around him taking notice of his talent, military life could have been different.

Singing May Have Saved His Life

Plenty of celebrities, artists, musicians, actors, and otherwise have served throughout history in the U.S. military. But Bacharach’s timing of joining the U.S. Army almost saw the Grammy, Oscar, and Tony winner potentially missing out on his storied career as the Korean War loomed. The very talents that would make Bacharach a force and influence throughout the music industry are exactly what changed the course of his military career. Once his fellow Soldiers found out about Burt Bacharach's songs and talent, they wanted him to sing in the States. Through his two years of service, Bacharach would bring music to troops both in the United States and overseas. Specifically, his singing talents would take him far away from the Korean Peninsula, and instead, to Germany. While in Germany, he would write pieces as part of the entertainment initiative for a local recreation center for troops on base. This would spark the beginning of a great career that would see Bacharach collaborate and write with some of the most famous names in music. Suggested Read: Famous Veterans: You’ll Never Believe These Celebrities Actually Served His talent and knack for working with the right people would shoot Bacharach to fame and stardom. The songs created through his songwriting and collaborations would also inspire a variety of covers from other notable stars including The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, and fellow Army Veteran, Elvis Presley. Burt Bacharach’s net worth amassed a total between $150 million and $160 million, but it wasn’t just because of his previous hits. Bacharach’s career continued actively until 2023. Newer artists would also draw inspiration in various ways including sampling his works like artists such as Twista have done. This allowed Bacharach to not only evolve but transcend generations and musical genres in more ways than one. Though married four times, the latest lady to claim the title of Burt Bacharach's spouse was Jane Hensen, whom he married in 1993 after meeting on a ski trip. The influence, passion, and accomplishments of Burt Bacharach may not showcase the path of a typical Soldier in the traditional sense, but it’s yet another story that points to the diversity of the force. It also demonstrates how no matter what skills you bring to the table, the military can help you hone them, as it helps you be the best version of yourself on and off the battlefield.

What Happened Between Burt Bacharach and Dionne Warwick?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0SU9bIyQGU There was a period of time in the 1970s until 1984 when the iconic partnership between the two was no more. Like many other partnerships, disagreements fostered the growth of resentment and legal action, effectively ending their collaborative efforts. That is until the duo felt compelled to put their differences aside to create something for Warwick’s album Finder of Lost Loves. Maybe it was time, perhaps it was the music, but most likely it was a mix of it all. The two had become one again and continued to collaborate for the rest of Bacharach's life. Even if you don’t know Burt Bacharach and his music personally, the chances are slim to none if the music you listen to today hasn’t been influenced by him either directly or indirectly. A legend, Veteran, and artist has passed, but his impact will remain forever. Read Next: Edgar Allan Poe at West Point Remains a Strange Military Tale