Home / Arts and Entertainment / Legendary Composer Ian Freebairn-Smith, Grammy Winner, Dies at 93
Legendary Composer Ian Freebairn-Smith, Grammy Winner, Dies at 93
13 Oct
Summary
- Composer of "Evergreen" from "A Star Is Born" passed away in October 2025
- Widely recognized for shaping Hollywood film and TV soundtracks
- Collaborated with songwriter Jimmy Webb on "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers"
Ian Freebairn-Smith, a renowned composer, vocalist, and arranger, passed away on October 7, 2025, in Folsom, California, at the age of 93. Freebairn-Smith was widely recognized for his contributions to the entertainment industry, particularly his work on shaping the soundtracks of many iconic Hollywood films and television shows.
In the 1970s and 1980s, Freebairn-Smith composed scores for popular TV series such as "Airwolf," "Fame," "Cagney & Lacey," "Magnum, P.I.," and "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers," the latter of which he collaborated with songwriter Jimmy Webb on a theme song. The Seattle native moved to Los Angeles in 1934 and began his career as a group singer with The Singers Incorporated, working alongside fellow vocalists.
Freebairn-Smith's most notable achievement was winning a Grammy award in 1977 for best arrangement accompanying a vocalist for "Evergreen," which was performed by the legendary Barbra Streisand. His credits also include scores for several TV movies and his voice can be heard on numerous film and TV soundtracks, including the theme songs for "Batman," "Flipper," and "Gilligan's Island."
