Julie Gold - American Singer-Songwriter of Grammy Winning Song “From A Distance”
Table of Contents
Early Life and Education
Musical Career
"From a Distance"
Other Notable Songs
Collaborations and Performances
Awards and Recognition
Personal Life
Legacy
Early Life and Education
Julie Gold was born on February 3, 1956 in Havertown, Pennsylvania. She later moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania as a child. Gold graduated from the Philadelphia High School for Girls in 1974. She then attended Temple University, graduating in 1978.
Musical Career
"From a Distance"
Gold is best known for writing the song "From a Distance," which became a major hit when recorded by Bette Midler in 1990. The song won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year in 1991. "From a Distance" has received millions of airplays and has been translated into many languages. It has also been quoted in books, greeting cards, and was even used as the wake-up call for astronauts on the Mir space station. The song has been covered by many artists including Jewel, Cliff Richard, Judy Collins, and Donna Summer.
Other Notable Songs
Gold has written many other popular songs as well. Nanci Griffith recorded Gold's songs "Heaven," "Southbound Train," "Good Night New York," and "Mountain of Sorrow." Other artists like Patti LaBelle and Andrea Marcovicci have also recorded Gold's songs. Her song "Thanks to You" was featured in the 1993 film Andre. Another composition, "Dream Loud," was used in the 2002 film Unfaithful starring Richard Gere.
Collaborations and Performances
Early in her career, Gold performed as a featured act in coffee houses and clubs in the Philadelphia area. From 1990 to 1994, she was a member of the folk group Four Bitchin' Babes, performing with Christine Lavin, Megon McDonough and Sally Fingerett. She also wrote lyrics for the WNBC 1992 image campaign song "We're 4 New York," working with composer Edd Kalehoff. Gold continues to perform and give motivational speeches around the country.
Awards and Recognition
In addition to her Grammy Award, Gold has received other honors. She served on the Board of Governors for the Recording Academy NARAS. She was also a guest artist for Lincoln Center's Meet the Artist series.
Personal Life
Gold was born into a Jewish family. Her grandparents and mother immigrated to the United States from Russia in the 1930s to escape persecution. Gold has said her Jewish background has influenced her songwriting.
Legacy
With her hit song "From a Distance," Julie Gold left a lasting impact on popular music. Her lyrics about unity and seeing the world through a wide lens resonated with millions. Though best known for one iconic song, Gold has an expansive catalog of thoughtful compositions. Her music touches on universal themes of home, relationships and the human experience. Gold continues to write and perform, cementing her status as an important American singer-songwriter.
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