Prolific songwriter, composer, and author, educated at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and the University of North Carolina, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree.
During World War II, he wrote and directed Special Services shows, showcasing his talents in the entertainment industry. Following the war, he directed television shows for CBS in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from 1945 to 1953.
In 1955, he joined the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP),marking the beginning of a fruitful career in songwriting. He wrote TV production numbers for Jo Stafford's special shows, and composed songs for renowned artists such as Fred Astaire, Marge and Gower Champion.
His repertoire also includes songs for revues and night club acts, showcasing his versatility as a songwriter. His stage scores include "That's Life" (Los Angeles),"Ice Capades of 1957," and "Something More!" (Broadway).
Throughout his career, he collaborated with prominent musicians, including his wife, Marilyn Bergman, Lew Spence, Norman Luboff, Paul Weston, Sammy Fain, and Alex North. His notable song compositions include "Cheatin' Billy," "Don't Know Where I'm Goin'," "I've Never Left Your Arms," "Marriage-Go-Round," "Sentimental Baby," "Sleep Warm," "Sogni D'Oro," "That Face," "Baby, The Ball Is Over," "Ol' MacDonald," "That's Him Over There," and "If I Were In Love."
His albums include "Never Be Afraid" and "Aesop's Fables," showcasing his musical range and creativity.