82-Year-Old Higgins Debuts New Song on Billboard AC Chart

Singer-songwriter Bertie Higgins, 82, has made a notable return to the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, debuting his new single "A River" at No. 29. This marks his first appearance on this ranking in over 42 years, a significant milestone following the enduring popularity of his 1982 breakthrough hit, "Key Largo."

Higgins' career resurgence is highlighted by his latest song, "A River," which he cowrote with Eddie Hedges. The inspiration for the track reportedly stems from a memorable line in the 1962 film "Lawrence of Arabia." This connection to classic cinema echoes the genesis of "Key Largo," which was inspired by the 1948 film of the same name.

The veteran artist, who hails from Tarpon Springs, Florida, also previously charted with "Just Another Day in Paradise" and "When You Fall in Love." Higgins expressed amazement at his continued relevance, especially competing on a chart that has recently featured multiple songs by Taylor Swift in its top 10.

Reflecting on his journey, Higgins shared wisdom for aspiring musicians, emphasizing the importance of following mentors, surrounding oneself with successful peers, and actively pursuing opportunities in major music hubs like Los Angeles or New York. He also stressed the discipline of daily writing, regardless of genre, believing that every song has the potential to find its audience.