Jay Livingston (1915-2001)
McDonald, Washington County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
Prolific composer and writer of popular songs for motion pictures and television from the 1940s to the 1990s. Born and raised in McDonald. Along with partner Ray Evans, Livingston earned Academy Awards for the songs "Buttons and Bows," "Mona Lisa," and "Que Sera, Sera." His most enduring and popular song was "Silver Bells." He also wrote themes for television series "Bonanza" and "Mister Ed" and scores for Broadway shows.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
Jay Livingston grew up in the small railroad and mining town of McDonald before becoming one of Hollywood's most decorated songwriters. Working for decades with lyricist partner Ray Evans, he wrote music that won three Academy Awards and produced the enduring holiday standard "Silver Bells," along with instantly recognizable television themes. His work reached across stage, screen, radio, and TV from the 1940s into the 1990s.
Why it matters
Livingston's songs became part of the shared soundtrack of mid-century America, a reminder of how much of the nation's popular culture traces back to small hometowns like McDonald.
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Related people
- · Jay Livingston
- · Ray Evans
Themes & tags
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