A Legend Earle Hagden Dies at the Age of 88

Composer of the theme song to "The Andy Griffith Show" Earle Hagen has died at the age of 88. Also known for composing the theme songs to "I Spy" and "Mob Squad", Hagen was a legend in his time.

Hagen is also well known for being the co-author to the classical jazz song "Harlem Nocturne". He had spent the past several months very ill at his home in Rancho Mirage living with his wife Laura.

I remember growing up to the whistling theme song of "The Andy Griffith Show." Rushing to the television day after day just so I wouldn't miss that infamous song was how my family and I spent many an afternoon. Earle Hagen brought happiness to lives of many families all over.

Hagen was also nominated for an Academy Award. He and Lionel Newman were nominated for their roles in "Let's Make Love", a 1960 movie starring Marylyn Monroe.

According to Hagen's wife Laura, "He loved it. The music just flowed from him, and he would take off one hat and put on another and go to the next show.", as printed in Yahoo News, by the Associated Press Writer Robert Jablon, Tuesday, May 27.

Hagen's love for music touched so many people back then and for many years to come. I for one, and thankful for reruns. I plan on making sure my child knows and appreciates the talented works Earle Hagen brought to television. A heart and passion that Hagen distributed in one that is few and far between. It is not often you find the type of talent Hagen possessed and distributed for everyone to enjoy.

Hagen was born July 19, 1919 in Chicago. It wasn't until he reached middle school that his love for music began to develop. At this time Hagen began playing the trombone. According to Hagen's wife Laura the school originally wanted him to play tuba and actually sent him home with one. Hagen's mother insisted he return the large instrument.

He was so talented with the trombone that he graduated high school at the young age of 16 and began his career touring with big bands. From here his career only began to flourish.

Hagen was such a talented and generous man to share his works with so many people. We are now in the position to carry on the tradition by sharing the music with each generation to come. I tip my hat to you Earle Hagen!