Hy Zaret

Hy Zaret (August 21, 1907 – July 2, 2007) was an American lyricist and composer best known for his collaboration with composer Alex North on the popular song "Unchained Melody." Zaret's career spanned multiple decades, during which he contributed to popular music, educational materials, and television programs.

Zaret's early work included songwriting for Broadway revues and radio shows. He gained prominence with "Unchained Melody," written for the obscure 1955 prison film Unchained. Despite its origins, the song became a massive hit, achieving widespread popularity through recordings by numerous artists including Les Baxter, Roy Hamilton, and later, The Righteous Brothers. The Righteous Brothers' version, in particular, cemented the song's place in popular culture.

Beyond "Unchained Melody," Zaret focused significantly on educational songs for children. He collaborated with Lou Singer to create a series of songs designed to teach children about science, history, and other subjects. These songs were often used in classrooms and educational television programs.

Zaret's work was characterized by its simplicity, emotional resonance, and accessibility, making it appealing to a wide audience. While "Unchained Melody" remains his most enduring contribution to popular music, his commitment to educational songwriting demonstrated his dedication to using music as a tool for learning and engagement. Zaret continued to write and compose until late in his life.