Author to discuss music legend, Georgian, Johnny Mercer

The Richard B. Russell Building Special Collections Libraries will present a special event next week on May 28 at 4 p.m. on an extraodrinary Georgian, composer Johnny Mercer:

Glenn T. Eskew, author of "Johnny Mercer, Southern Songwriter for the World," will discuss the popular lyricist in a multimedia presentation May 28 at 4 p.m. in the auditorium of the University of Georgia Richard B. Russell Building Special Collections Libraries.

Eskew's book is researched examination of the musician and was published by the University of Georgia Press, which is co-sponsoring the event with the UGA Libraries.

Mercer, who died in 1976, is known for songs including "Jeepers Creepers," "On the Atchison, Topeka and the Sante Fe" and "Moon River." He wrote at least 1,400 songs, was nominated for 19 Academy Awards and won four. Additionally, he was a co-founder of Capitol Records, through which he is credited with reviving the careers of such stars as Frank Sinatra, Peggy Lee and Duke Ellington.

I had no idea that Mercer was a co-founder of Capitol Records, though I am very familiar with Moon River - the inlet and the tune. Eskew is sure to share many more interesting stories about this legendary musician and native of Savannah.

Image: Moon River inlet, just outside of Savannah, Georgia.