Will Jennings, known for his Oscar-winning lyrics in popular music and film, has passed away at the age of 80. The news was confirmed by his talent agency, stating that Jennings died at his residence in Tyler, Texas on September 6 following several years of deteriorating health. Sam Schwartz of The Gorfaine/Schwartz Agency, Inc. expressed, “May his memory be a blessing.”

Jennings was born on June 27, 1944 in Kilgore, Texas. He initially pursued a career as an English professor before embracing full-time songwriting. His ability to create emotionally moving lyrics led to partnerships with several notable artists, resulting in some of the most cherished songs in recent decades.

Among Jennings’ most recognized works are the theme from Titanic, “My Heart Will Go On,” sung by Celine Dion, and “Tears in Heaven,” which he co-wrote with Eric Clapton. These songs contributed to his collection of esteemed awards, including two Academy Awards, three Grammy Awards, and two Golden Globe Awards.

Jennings showcased his adaptability throughout his career by penning lyrics for a diverse array of artists such as Steve Winwood, Whitney Houston, B.B. King, Mariah Carey, Jimmy Buffett, Barry Manilow, and Roy Orbison. His collaborations crossed several genres and generations, demonstrating his adeptness at adjusting his writing style to suit various musical tones.

One of Jennings’ early triumphs was the 1977 hit “Looks Like We Made It” for Barry Manilow, which he co-wrote with composer Richard Kerr. Their successful partnership continued with another top-10 hit for Manilow, “Somewhere in the Night,” in 1979.

Jennings’ collaboration with Steve Winwood was notably successful, leading to a series of hit albums and songs. They first teamed up for Winwood’s 1981 album “Arc of a Diver” and followed up with “Talking Back to the Night” in 1982, which included the hit “Valerie.” Their collaboration reached its peak with the 1986 album “Back in the High Life,” featuring the Grammy-nominated song “Higher Love.”

In 1982, Jennings earned his first Academy Award for “Up Where We Belong,” a song he co-wrote with Jack Nitzsche and Buffy Sainte-Marie. Performed by Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes for the film “An Officer and a Gentleman,” the song topped the charts.

Jennings’ knack for encapsulating raw emotion in his lyrics was particularly evident in the song “Tears in Heaven,” a 1991 collaboration with Eric Clapton. The song, written for the film “Rush,” won Jennings a Grammy for Song of the Year and resonated deeply with audiences worldwide.

Yet, it was the 1997 film “Titanic” that secured Jennings’ legacy in music history. The film’s theme song, “My Heart Will Go On,” co-written with James Horner and performed by Celine Dion, took the world by storm. This song earned Jennings his second Academy Award and is one of the most-played radio hits in history.

In the aftermath of Jennings’ death, several musicians and collaborators paid tribute. Peter Wolf, who worked with Jennings on two albums, described him as a maestro with a brilliant mind and gentle spirit, and as a valued friend and mentor. Musician Christopher Cross recalled his experience working with Jennings as a “master class in lyric writing.” Songwriter Diane Warren stated that “the love for your brilliant songs will go on forever.”

Jennings’ influence on the music industry was officially recognized in 2006 with his induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. This honor affirmed his status as one of the most accomplished and celebrated lyricists of his era.

Apart from his work in popular music, Jennings also made substantial contributions to film soundtracks. In addition to his well-known hits, he wrote “Where Are You Christmas?” with James Horner and Mariah Carey for the movie “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” and “One Day I’ll Fly Away,” featured in the film “Moulin Rouge!”

Jennings is survived by his wife, Carole Elizabeth Thurman, and his sisters, Joyce and Gloria. He had no children.