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Gerry Goffin, one of the great pop lyricists of all time, died today. In the '60s, Goffin and his wife Carole King wrote some of the best songs anyone has ever heard, including the Shirelles' "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow," the Drifters' "Up on the Roof," and the Monkees' "Pleasant Valley Sunday." His songwriting catalog is peerless.

After his partnership (and marriage) with King dissolved, Goffin had some rocky years, including mental problems stemming from LSD use and electroshock therapy. However, he continued to write hits through the '80s (Whitney Houston's "Saving All My Love for You") and was one of the first to discover Kelly Clarkson, before her appearance on American Idol.

Goffin died today in LA at age 75 of natural causes. Here are three of my very favorite songs that he wrote during his incredible lifetime. Rest in peace, Gerry, and thank you.