ENGLAND (CelebrityAccess) – Songwriter Les Reed, the co-writer of Tom Jones’ hits “It’s Not Unusual” and “Delilah,” has passed away at the age of 83.
Following the announcement of his death, his family released a statement saying: “We are all so immensely proud of everything Les achieved in his incredible lifetime. We know that his name will be remembered for what he did for music and that he will always live through his songs and compositions for the rest of time.”
Reed began his career as a songwriter in the 1960s, writing hits for artists including Lulu, Herman’s Hermits and the Dave Clark Five.
In 1964, “It’s Not Unusual,” which featured Reed as arranger and pianist, became Jones’ first No 1 hit. The pair reprised their success with “Delilah” in 1968, which went on to reach the Top 10. Later, in 1972, Reed co-wrote the song “Marching on Together,” which has since become known as the anthem of Leeds United FC.
Jones Tweeted about Reed’s passing saying: “Les was a lovely man, whose legacy will live through his music.”
Sorry to hear the news of the passing of my friend & colleague Les Reed. Les was a gifted songwriter who was instrumental in penning many a hit, incl two important songs for me; ‘It’s Not Unusual’ & ‘Delilah’ Les was a lovely man, whose legacy will live through his music. RIP Les pic.twitter.com/ZSceuJiha5
— Tom Jones (@RealSirTomJones) April 16, 2019
Artists including Elvis Presley, Bing Crosby, Englebert Humperdinck and Shirley Bassey also recorded songs written by Reed.
Reed was born in Woking, Surrey, in 1935. He is survived by his daughter, Donna, and grandsons, according to the BBC.
