Gerry Goffin, a prolific and multi-dimensional lyricist who with his then-wife and songwriting partner Carole King wrote such hits as “Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” “Up on the Roof” and “The Loco-Motion,” died early Thursday at his home in Los Angeles. He was 75. His wife, Michelle Goffin, confirmed his death. Goffin, who married King in 1959 while they were in their teens, penned more than 50 top 40 hits, including “Pleasant Valley Sunday” for the Monkees, “Crying In The Rain,” by the Everly Brothers, “Some Kind Of Wonderful” for The Drifters and “Take Good Care Of My Baby” by Bobby Vee. Goffin was able to pen jokey lyrics or achingly sad ones. He also did it for solo artists and multiple voices. The couple divorced in 1968, but Goffin kept writing hits, including “Savin’ All My Love For You” for Whitney Houston. Goffin and King were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1987 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three years later. King said in a statement that Goffin was her “first love” and had a “profound impact” on her life. “Gerry was a good man with a dynamic force, whose words and creative influence will resonate for generations to come,” King said. “His legacy to me is our two daughters, four grandchildren, and our songs that have touched millions and millions of people, as well as a lifelong friendship.”
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