ICON GONE
Legendary Suspicious Minds songwriter Mark James dead at 83 after partnerships with Elvis & Willie Nelson
His family wrote a tribute
ICONIC songwriter Mark James, who worked with Elvis Presley and Willie Nelson, has died at age 83.
James, whose real name is Francis Zambon, died in his home in Nashville, Tennessee, on Saturday.
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He wrote multiple top hits in his life including Hooked on a Feeling - along with Presley’s Suspicious Minds, Always on My Mind, and more.
James was born in Houston, Texas, in 1940 - details of his death have no be shared currently.
Recognized as one of the best songwriters in history, James was inducted into the Songwriter Hall of Fame in 2014.
He was also named one of the Songwriters of the Century in 2000 by BMI.
James' family wrote a tribute to remember him for his lively personality and talents.
He is survived by his wife Karen Zambon of 53 years.
His daughters are Sammie and Dana Zambon, and he also has grandchildren.
“Mark’s legacy and zest for life will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, and through his timeless lyrics and melodies that have been the soundtrack of lovers for generations,” his family said in a statement.
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"His larger-than-life personality filled any room he was in, and his smile lit it up.
"He was a captivating storyteller who had the sweetest smile, the most infectious laugh, and a twinkle in his eye that never dimmed.”
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James changed his name because he was originally pursuing a career as a singer.
Club owners in Houston suggested he change it to make it sound more appealing.
The famous song Always on My Mind was co-written with Wayne Carson and Johnny Christopher.
It was first written for Elvis Presley and won both Song of the Year and Country Song of the Year.
There was also a rendition done by Willie Nelson and Pet Shop Boys which gained traction.
Mark Jame's family statementt
"Mark’s legacy and zest for life will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, and through his timeless lyrics and melodies that have been the soundtrack of lovers for generations.
"His larger-than-life personality filled any room he was in, and his smile lit it up.
"He was a captivating storyteller who had the sweetest smile, the most infectious laugh, and a twinkle in his eye that never dimmed," - Mark James' family
This led Always On Mind to be inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2008.
James also wrote Suspicious Minds which became a hit with Presley as well.
Suspicious Minds was originally recorded by James but it did not chart.
The first time Presley heard the song he fell in love with it and took it on - this led to it being number one on the charts in 1969.
Hooked on a Feeling became a popular song to include in movies such as Reservoir Dogs and Guardians of the Galaxy.
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