Nelson Riddle was born on June 1, 1921, in New Jersey. From a young age, he showed a natural talent for music and began playing the piano and trumpet. He honed his skills throughout his school years and decided to pursue a career in music.
Riddle's first professional gig was with the Charlie Spivak Orchestra while he was serving in the Merchant Marine at Sheepshead Bay in Brooklyn, New York. This experience helped him develop his arranging skills and gave him a taste of the music industry.
After his time with the orchestra, Riddle began working as an arranger for various bands and singers. His talent and unique style caught the attention of Capital Records, where he would go on to create some of his most iconic arrangements.
Riddle's most famous work came from his collaboration with the legendary Frank Sinatra. Together, they created some of the most iconic songs in American music history. Riddle's arrangements perfectly complemented Sinatra's smooth voice, creating a sound that was unmatched.
Throughout their partnership, Riddle and Sinatra produced numerous hit songs and albums, solidifying their places as legends in the music industry. Riddle's arrangements for Sinatra's albums like "Songs for Swingin' Lovers!" and "Come Fly with Me" are still regarded as some of the best in the genre.
In 1974, Riddle won his first Academy Award for his score for The Great Gatsby. This achievement solidified his status as one of the most talented arrangers and composers in the industry. His ability to create music that perfectly captured the essence of a film was unmatched.
Aside from his work with Frank Sinatra, Riddle also composed the theme song for the classic TV series "Route 66" and contributed to the music of the 1960s "Batman." He also worked on films like "Robin and the 7 Hoods" and "Ocean's 11," both of which starred the Rat Pack.
Riddle married Doreen Moran in 1945, but the marriage ended in divorce in 1970. He then married Naomi Tenenholtz later that year. Riddle had a son, Christopher, who eventually took over the leadership of his father's orchestra after Riddle's passing.
In the 1980s, Riddle recorded three Platinum albums with Linda Ronstadt to critical and commercial acclaim. Their collaboration showcased Riddle's versatility as an arranger and composer, solidifying his reputation as a musical genius.
Nelson Riddle's impact on the music industry cannot be overstated. His innovative arrangements and compositions have stood the test of time, influencing countless artists and musicians. His work with Frank Sinatra, as well as his solo projects, continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
Riddle's dedication to his craft and his commitment to creating timeless music have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest arrangers and composers of his generation. His influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.