RIP Philip Balsam (1943 - 2023)

Sad news as Philip Balsam who – along with Dennis Lee – was the songwriter and composer  for Fraggle Rock and many other Henson productions has died. 

The Henson Company posted the following tribute on social media:

"For the magic, magic is in every moment. Magic is you.” – Balsam & Lee

Today we honor and celebrate the life of Philip Balsam, who – along with Dennis Lee – was the songwriter and composer of the nearly 200 memorable and beloved songs for Fraggle Rock, including its iconic theme song. A cherished member of our Fraggle Rock family, he inspired generations of fans and musicians, and his heartfelt work will continue to bring joy for many years to come."

Balsam also provided the voice, and inspired the name, for Phil Fraggle in "New Trash Heap in Town", made a cameo as a  street musician in "The Day the Music Died" and it's presumed that Balsam the Minstrel was named after him as well. 

Balsam and Lee later wrote songs for The Tale of the Bunny Picnic, The Jim Henson Hour, Muppet Classic Theater, and The Animal Show, while Balsam worked solo on Dog City, composing the main title theme.

Below are a just a few samples of Philip Balsam contributions to the world of the Muppets. 

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According to Jerry Juhl on the Fraggle Rock season 1 DVD. "Follow Me" was the first song submitted by Balsam and Lee, as a demo, and the theme song and others followed.

So we end though it appropriate to end our tribute to Philip with his first Henson creation which has been one of our favorite Muppet songs since we first heard it over 40 years ago. 

 

Philip Balsam was 79 years old.