George Merrill, American singer-songwriter and keyboard player

George Merrill: A Prolific Songwriter Behind Iconic 80s Pop Hits

Born on January 10, 1956, George Merrill is an American songwriter whose indelible contributions to pop music largely defined the sound of the mid-to-late 1980s. Known for crafting anthemic melodies and heartfelt lyrics, Merrill's work has graced the discographies of some of the era's biggest stars, cementing his legacy as a pivotal figure in contemporary songwriting.

Penning Chart-Toppers for Whitney Houston

Merrill's talent for creating blockbuster hits is perhaps best exemplified through his collaborations with the legendary Whitney Houston. He notably co-wrote two of her most iconic tracks, both of which became global sensations:

• "How Will I Know" (1986): This vibrant, upbeat track, co-written by Merrill and his then-partner Shannon Rubicam, propelled Houston to her second career number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It became a quintessential 80s pop anthem, celebrated for its infectious energy and Houston's powerful vocal delivery.
• "I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)" (1987): Another monumental collaboration with Houston, this song solidified Merrill's reputation as a hitmaker. Co-written with Rubicam, the track not only soared to the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 but also earned Houston a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance, a testament to its widespread appeal and enduring popularity.

The Duo Boy Meets Girl: Beyond the Writing Room

Since the mid-1980s and continuing to the present day, George Merrill has also been one half of the acclaimed vocal duo Boy Meets Girl. Formed with his then-wife and long-time creative partner, Shannon Rubicam, the duo crafted their own distinct sound, characterized by sophisticated pop arrangements and lush vocal harmonies.

"Waiting for a Star to Fall": A Journey from Rejection to Signature Hit

Boy Meets Girl is arguably best remembered for their late-1988 hit, "Waiting for a Star to Fall." This deeply beloved song, penned by Merrill, carries a fascinating backstory. It was initially offered to several high-profile artists, including the very same Whitney Houston and fellow pop icon Belinda Carlisle. Interestingly, Carlisle did record a demo version of the track, yet both artists ultimately passed on including it in their respective albums. This turn of events led Merrill to decide that he and Rubicam should perform it themselves, featuring it on their 1988 album, "Reel Life." This decision proved to be a stroke of genius, as "Waiting for a Star to Fall" became a significant success, peaking at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and reaching number nine on the UK Singles Chart, establishing it as Boy Meets Girl's signature anthem.

A Harmonious Partnership: Professional and Personal Lives

George Merrill's creative journey has been deeply intertwined with Shannon Rubicam. They were married from the mid-1980s until their divorce in 2000. From their marriage, they have one daughter, Hilary Merrill. Fans of Boy Meets Girl will recognize Hilary from her memorable appearance as the little blonde girl in her parents' iconic music video for "Waiting for a Star to Fall," a charming inclusion that adds a personal touch to their artistic legacy.

Despite the dissolution of their marriage, George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam have maintained an impressive professional alliance. They have continued to collaborate on various music projects, composing new material, performing live, and showcasing a remarkable ability to sustain a productive creative partnership that transcends their personal relationship. Their ongoing work together is a testament to their mutual respect and enduring artistic bond.

Frequently Asked Questions About George Merrill

When was George Merrill born?

George Merrill was born on January 10, 1956.

What famous songs did George Merrill write for Whitney Houston?

George Merrill co-wrote two of Whitney Houston's biggest hits: "How Will I Know" (1986) and "I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)" (1987). Both songs reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100.

What is Boy Meets Girl best known for?

Boy Meets Girl, the vocal duo comprising George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam, is best known for their late-1988 hit song "Waiting for a Star to Fall," which reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100.

Did George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam continue working together after their divorce?

Yes, despite divorcing in 2000, George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam have continued their professional collaboration on various music projects, demonstrating an enduring creative partnership.