Stephen J Lawrence, the composer for "Sesame Street," died at 82

Stephen J. Lawrence, a musical genius whose accomplishments included the 1972 film 'Free to Be... You and Me' and a long run on 'Sesame Street,' died at the age of 82 at Clara Maas Medical Center in New Jersey.

His death was verified by his wife, Cantor Cathy Lawrence, to Variety, according to variety.com.

Lawrence was born on September 5, 1939, and his career as a musician spanned five decades.

He is most recognised for his collaboration with Bruce Hart on the gold album "Free to Be... You and Me" as musical director and co-producer.

The album's title track, as well as the tracks 'When We Grow Up' and 'Sisters and Brothers,' were written by Lawrence.

Lawrence also worked for nearly 30 years as a composer, music director, arranger, and conductor for the children's television show 'Sesame Street,' writing over 300 songs and soundtracks for the show, including the tune 'Fuzzy and Blue (and Orange),' which he co-wrote with David Axelrod.

During his time on the show, he won three Daytime Emmys for outstanding achievement in music direction and composition.

Lawrence's other work includes the score for the 1979 film 'Sooner or Later' and the single 'You Take My Breath Away.'

He also composed music for films such as 'Bang the Drum Slowly,' 'One Summer Love,' 'Alice, Sweet Alice,' 'Red Riding Hood,' and the animated musical 'The Tale of Peter Rabbit,' among others.

From 2003 to 2022, Lawrence was the music director of Temple Sinai in Stamford, Connecticut.

Lawrence leaves behind his wife Cantor Cathy Lawrence, brother Robert, daughter Hannah Jones Anderson, son-in-law Seth Anderson, grandson Arthur, and stepsons Sam and Nick Kline.