The Songwriter Behind ‘Cry Me a River’ Has Died: Arthur Hamilton Was 98

Oscar-nominated songwriter Arthur Hamilton, best known for classics like “Cry Me a River,” has passed away.

His death was announced by the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers on Tuesday.

“The ASCAP family is saddened to learn that legendary songwriter and longtime ASCAP Board member Arthur Hamilton has passed away,” the organization wrote on X. “Arthur wrote such classic songs as ‘Cry Me a River,’ ‘Sing a Rainbow, ‘ and ‘She Needs Me,” & more. His legacy will forever burn brightly in our hearts.”

The cause of his death has not yet been confirmed. Hamilton was 98.

Hamilton earned an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song, shared with composer Riz Ortolani, for “Till Love Touches Your Life” from the 1970 film Madron. The song, performed by Richard Williams and Jan Dale