Mark James dead at 83: Legendary songwriter behind Elvis hits Suspicious Minds and Always On My Mind passes away in Nashville
Legendary songwriter Mark James has died at the age of 83.
James, who wrote Elvis Presley’s megahit Suspicious Minds, died June 8 at his home in Nashville, his family said.
The cause of the Grammy winner’s death has not been announced.
James’ family told the Houston Chronicle, “His larger-than-life personality filled every room he was in, and his smile lit it up.
“He was a captivating storyteller with the sweetest smile, the most infectious laugh and a twinkle in his eye that never faded.”
Legendary songwriter Mark James has died in Nashville at the age of 83
One of the most successful songwriters of the 20th century, James’ songs have been featured in films such as Reservoir Dogs and Guardians of the Galaxy.
In 2014 he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
James was also behind the songs Always on My Mind and Hooked on a Feeling – both named on BMI’s list of the 100 best songs of the 20th century, alongside Suspicious Minds.
BMI also named him one of the best songwriters of the 20th century in 2000, alongside Elton John and Paul McCartney.
The musician won the Grammy twice in 1983 for Always on My mind, taking home the Song of the Year and Country Song of the Year awards after being recorded by Willie Nelson, Variety reports.
James was also behind the songs Always on My Mind and Hooked on a Feeling – both named on BMI’s list of the 100 best songs of the 20th century, alongside Suspicious Minds
One of the most successful songwriters of the 20th century, James’ songs have been featured in films such as Guardians of the Galaxy. He can be seen in 2014 with his wife Karen
The song was previously recorded by Elvis in 1972, but that version did not become a big hit until much later.
Born Francis Rodney Cambon, James was originally from Houston, Texas, where he launched his music career.
He moved to Memphis after returning from service in Vietnam and recorded his first hit in 1968, The Eyes of a New York Woman, which was followed the next year by Hooked on a Feeling and “It’s Only Love” in 1969.
James worked as a singer while growing his songwriting career, recording Suspicious Minds in 1968.
But it wasn’t until Presley recorded the song in 1969 that it became a number one hit.
James is survived by his wife of 53 years, Karen Zambon, his daughters Sammie and Dana Zambon and his grandchildren.