On Friday, September 15, 2023, while traveling to one of his much-awaited performances, the famed pianist and music director, Frank Owens, met with a sad accident that caused a great loss to the music industry. His incredible musical odyssey came to an end at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy that will endure throughout the annals of musical history.
A multidimensional genius, Frank Owens had an impact on not only Broadway but also the television and music industries. His legendary career lasted for many years and had a profound impact on both music lovers and industry professionals.
One theatre where Frank Owens truly excelled was Broadway. He brought his extraordinary talent to the theatre, playing the lead in classic plays including “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” “Uptown It’s Hot!,” and “Sophisticated Ladies.” His performances were nothing short of mesmerising, and his soul-stirring piano tunes helped him bring to life the characters he played on stage. Long after the last curtain fell, Owens’ ability to engage the audience on a deep level continued to mesmerise and captivate them.
But his contributions to the world of theater extended beyond acting and playing the piano. Frank Owens was also known for his involvement in productions like “Black Broadway” and “Don’t Play Us Cheap,” where his musical direction added a layer of depth and emotion to the storytelling. Perhaps one of his most remarkable creations was “Shades of Harlem,” a production that celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Harlem through music, dance, and storytelling.
Television was another realm where Frank Owens left an indelible mark. He served as the musical director for the debut of “The David Letterman Show” in 1980, setting the stage for one of the most iconic late-night talk shows in television history. His musical prowess created the perfect backdrop for the show’s humor and wit, earning him the admiration of both the audience and fellow artists.
His work on “It’s Showtime at the Apollo” was one of his most enduring television roles. Owens’ participation in this illustrious production gave him the chance to work with a wide range of great artists, demonstrating his versatility in applying his musical genius to several genres and styles. Frank Owens was able to easily incorporate his magic into any musical tapestry, whether it was jazz, soul, or rock.
Frank Owens had the honour of working with some of the most recognisable voices in the music business throughout his successful career. His collaborations with musicians from various backgrounds and genres, including as Johnny Mathis, Lena Horne, John Denver, and Keith David, were evidence of his adaptability and his capacity to improve the performances of those musicians. He became a sought-after music director because of his capacity to comprehend the subtleties of their voices and compositions.
One of the high points in Frank Owens’s career was the recognition he received for his work on Tony Orlando and Dawn’s “Tie a Yellow Ribbon ‘Round the Old Oak Tree.” This song became an instant classic, and Owens’s contribution to its success earned him a gold record—an accolade that further solidified his status as a musical maestro.
Beyond the confines of the recording studio and the stage, Frank Owens was a fixture on the live music scene in New York City. His piano skills graced the elegant atmosphere of Mortimer’s and the iconic Hotel Carlyle, where his performances were revered by both locals and tourists. Each August, he became a highlight of Bryant Park’s “Piano in the Park” Series, where he captivated audiences with his enchanting melodies under the open sky.
In addition to being a talented performer, Owens was a dedicated teacher and mentor. By supporting the Maryland Youth Ballet and The Washington School of Ballet, he committed his time and talents to developing young talent. His dedication to imparting his wisdom and love of music to the next generation of performers insured that his legacy would endure.
In recent years, Owens has continued to make a positive impact on the music industry by organising a memorial concert at the BMCC Performing Arts Centre for the great jazz pianist Erroll Garner. His profound admiration for the performers who came before him and his steadfast dedication to upholding jazz’s aesthetic beauty were both evident in this act of homage.
As a recording artist, Frank Owens released standout albums that showcased his immense talent and versatility. Albums like “Oliver! Ole!” and “In Performance” are cherished by music enthusiasts worldwide and serve as a testament to his enduring legacy.
Frank Owens’s passing leaves a void in the world of music that can never truly be filled. His extraordinary talent, his dedication to his craft, and his ability to transcend genres and touch the hearts of countless people made him a true musical legend. His contributions to Broadway, television, and the recording industry are a testament to his exceptional skill and boundless passion for music.
Even though Frank Owens may no longer grace us with his presence on stage, those who had the opportunity of hearing his creativity will always cherish the music he created. As we pay tribute to this musical genius, we are reminded that his legacy is not determined by the number of years he lived but rather by the lasting effects of his craft on the musical landscape. As a pianist, arranger, and music director who spread happiness, inspiration, and a hint of magic through his music, Frank Owens will always be remembered and revered.