Drake also wrote lyrics for two imports that enjoyed periods of popularity. “Tico Tico” (1942) was popular in Brazil before Carmen Miranda had a hit with it both on record and film. And the Italian song, “Quando, Quando, Quando,” was featured in the film Rome Adventure (1962).

In 1952 his semi-religious “I Believe,” written with Al Stillman, Jimmy Shirl, and Irvin Graham, became a huge hit. Although recorded by many artists, Frankie Laine’s version enjoyed wide play. “It Was a Very Good Year” (1961), for which Drake wrote both words and music, earned Frank Sinatra a Grammy in 1966.

Drake spent several years writing for television before creating both words and music for the successful Broadway show, What Makes Sammy Run (1964) which had a long run and produced two songs that enjoyed popularity outside the show.

Originally trained as a graphic artist, Drake entered the Julliard School for formal music training in 1963. From 1973-1982 he served as president of the American Guild of Authors and Composers.

- Sandra Burlingame