About Doc Pomus
Doc Pomus, born Jerome Solon Felder, was a pivotal American blues singer and legendary songwriter, best known for his profound influence on rock and roll, rhythm & blues, and pop music during the 1950s and 1960s. He was a prolific force during the Brill Building era, co-writing numerous iconic hits that shaped the sound of an generation and helped bridge the gap between Elvis Presley's early career and the British Invasion.
- Born Jerome Solon Felder, he adopted the stage name "Doc Pomus," partly to create a distinct persona for his blues singing career and to spare his family from the perceived unconventionality of being a blues "shouter."
- Having contracted polio as a child, Doc Pomus navigated his life and career with the aid of crutches, and later a wheelchair.
- He penned more than 20 songs for Elvis Presley, including enduring classics like "Viva Las Vegas," "Little Sister," and "Surrender," and co-wrote many hits for The Drifters, such as "Save the Last Dance for Me" and "This Magic Moment."
- His immense contributions to music were recognized with inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (as a non-performer), the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Blues Hall of Fame.
For musicians eager to explore the foundational sounds of classic rock and roll, R&B, and pop, Doc Pomus's sheet music offers a rewarding journey into the heart of popular music history. His compositions often feature engaging melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and a timeless blend of bluesy grit and pop appeal, making them suitable for a range of skill levels, from those learning basic chords and vocal lines to ensembles and choral groups. Performing his work provides a direct connection to the masterful songwriting craft that defined an era, offering both a challenge and immense satisfaction in bringing these influential pieces to life.