Best known for writing the song Everybody's Talkin', which was noted for its use in Midnight Cowboy and as a hit for Harry Nilsson.
He pitched pop songs at New York City's Brill Building.
He was honored with a Grammy Award for Everybody's Talkin'. He also wrote Come Back Baby for Buddy Holly and Candy Man for Roy Orbison.
His father sold Wurlitzer jukeboxes. He married wife Linda.
He paved the way for many folk singers and songwriters, including Joni Mitchell.