Andrew Gold, who achieved big success in the ’70s as a songwriter, passed away at age 59. Gold was well known for the songs “Lonely Boy” and “Thank You For Being A Friend,” both of which went on to further success in movie soundtracks, and in the case of the latter, as the theme song to the Golden Girls.
Gold was the son of Oscar-winning composer Ernest Gold and singer Marni Nixon. He joined Linda Rondstadt’s band in 1973, helping with songs such as “You’re No Good” and “When Will I Be Loved?” In 1975, his first solo album came out, and included a track “Endless Flight” that was a hit for Leo Sayer. He continued recording solo albums and with many other artists. In the ’90s, he recorded the theme song for Mad About You. He most recent release was in 2008.