Andrew Gold, Writer Of GOLDEN GIRLS Theme Song Dead At 59

Andrew Gold, the hit single songwriter and singer, best known for his song, "Thank You For Being Friend", the theme song used in NBC's hit comedy, THE GOLDEN GIRLS, has died at the age of 59. He had been battling cancer, and died in his sleep.

Gold was also a talented session musician as well, where made many important musical contributions to the likes of Linda Ronstadt, James Taylor, Carly Simon and Loudon Wainwright III on some of their greatest recordings.

Andrew Gold came from a family that were like musical royalty. His mother, Marni Nixon, provided the singing vocal work for Katherine Hepburn in MY FAIR LADY and also for Natalie Wood for WEST SIDE STORY. His father, Ernest Gold, was an accomplished composer who won an Oscar for his excellent score for the movie EXODUS. That was indeed one of the greatest soundtracks in movie history.

Andrew Gold was also a member of the band, Bryndle, which helped to spur other stars such as Karla Bonofff, Wendy Waldman and Kenny Edwards.

Andrew Gold also provided the theme song for NBC's MAD ABOUT YOU as well as having another big hit with the song, "Lonely Boy". While never completely rising to the level of a household name in his own right, Andrew Gold still was a very significant musician and songwriter whose contributions to music will never be forgotten.