A songwriting legend passed away in New York last night. Ellie Greenwich wrote some of the most enduring songs of the 60s, including the Crystals’ “Da Doo Ron Ron” and “Then He Kissed Me,” and the Ronettes’ “Be My Baby” (a song the Recording Industry Association Of America and National Endowment For The Arts included their list of the Greatest Songs Of The 20th Century), Tina Turner’s “River Deep, Mountain High,” and the Dixie Cups’ “Chapel of Love.” She also produced early hits from Neil Diamond, including “Cherry, Cherry” and “Solitary Man.” Greenwich is a classic example of the New York’s Brill Building sound.
Here are a few clips in memory of this extraordinary songwriter and producer.