Composer Joe Lubin dies at 84

October 9, 2001

By DOUG GALLOWAY

Joe Lubin, longtime composer and songwriter who worked on Doris Day films, numerous TV shows and co-wrote "Tutti Frutti," died of heart failure Oct. 9 at UCLA Medical Center. He was 84.

Lubin's career began in his native England, where he penned songs for such notables as Vera Lynn. He immigrated to the United States in 1947. During his career, he wrote songs for a bevy of artists including Gordon McRae, Petula Clark, Lainie Kazan, Tracy Ullman and Bob Hope.

During the late 1950s, he wrote title songs for a number of Day films including "Teacher's Pet," "Please Don't Eat the Daisies," "Move Over Darling" and "Glass Bottom Boat."

In the 1970s, Lubin headed the music department for David Dortort's production company, providing music for TV series "Bonanza," "High Chaparral" and "Gentle Ben."

He also scouted and developed numerous artists during the 1960s and '70s including Jan and Dean and featured them on his own record label, Carmel Records.

Lubin also wrote numerous novelty songs including "The Wedding of the Knife and Fork," "Rickity, Rackaty Rendevous" and "Fish and Chips." He co-wrote "Tutti Frutti" with Little Richard.

He is survived by his wife, artist Paulette Lubin, as well as a son, a daughter and two grandchildren.