Richard Addrisi, the renowned singer-songwriter and half of the Addrisi Brothers duo, passed away at the age of 84 in Miami. His passing marks the end of a remarkable journey in the music industry, where he and his brother, Don, left an indelible mark with their timeless hit, "Never My Love."
The Addrisi Brothers' story began in Winthrop, Massachusetts, where they were born. They were part of a family acrobatic troupe called the Flying Addrisis, showcasing their talent from a young age. Richard and Don's musical journey took them to Los Angeles, where they aimed to make it big in show business. Richard's dedication to his craft led him to attend the Hollywood Professional School, a hub for aspiring child actors.
Their first single, "Cherrystone," released in 1959, marked the beginning of their songwriting prowess. However, it was their collaboration with The Association that brought them widespread recognition. "Never My Love," a song they penned for the group, became a massive hit, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1967. This song's popularity endured, with numerous artists covering it over the years, including The 5th Dimension, Blue Swede, and Vern Gosdin & Janie Fricke.
The Addrisi Brothers' songwriting talents extended beyond "Never My Love." They wrote the theme song for the ABC show "Nanny and the Professor," and their song "Time for Living" reached the Top 30 in 1968. The brothers also found success as recording artists, with their single "We've Got to Get It on Again" peaking at No. 25 on the pop chart in 1972.
Richard Addrisi's impact on the music industry was profound. He and his brother wrote songs for various artists, including Dorothy Moore's hit "I Believe You," which reached the Top 5 on the Billboard R&B Soul chart. Their songs have been recorded by over 300 notable artists, solidifying their place in music history.
Richard's personal life was as colorful as his career. He was described as a warm and funny soul, enjoying his time between his homes in Los Angeles, Buenos Aires, and Miami. He leaves behind his life partner, Kay Douglass, and family members who cherished his presence.
In the words of BMI, "Never My Love" is the second most-played song in U.S. radio/television history, a testament to its enduring appeal. Richard Addrisi's legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.
