Bobby Troup was an accomplished musician, songwriter, and actor whose talents transcended multiple entertainment genres. Best known for his jazz compositions, most notably “Route 66,” and his role as Dr. Joe Early on the 1970s television series Emergency!, Troup enjoyed a diverse and highly successful career. Over the span of several decades, Troup became a prominent figure in the jazz world, while his forays into acting brought him further recognition, endearing him to both music and television audiences. His influence in both the music industry and television is still felt today, making him one of the more versatile entertainers of his time.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Bobby Troup was born Robert William Troup Jr. on October 18, 1918, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Growing up in a middle-class family, Troup showed a passion for music at a young age. His mother encouraged him to pursue piano lessons, and by the time he was in high school, he had developed a strong interest in jazz, a genre that would come to define his career.
Troup’s early musical influences included the great jazz pianists and bandleaders of the era, such as Duke Ellington, Fats Waller, and Art Tatum. These influences shaped his style as a musician, blending traditional jazz elements with a unique personal flair. After high school, Troup attended the University of Pennsylvania, where he continued to develop his musical skills, playing in various bands and refining his abilities as a composer and performer.
During his time in college, Troup composed several songs, and it became clear that his talent for songwriting would take him far. One of his early compositions, “Daddy,” became a hit in 1941, helping to launch his career in the music industry. The song’s success allowed Troup to further establish himself as a songwriter and performer.
World War II and the Jazz Scene
After graduating from college, Bobby Troup’s career was interrupted by World War II. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served as an officer during the war. Though his time in the military kept him away from music, Troup continued to write songs in his spare moments, and his passion for jazz never wavered. Once the war ended, Troup returned to civilian life, eager to immerse himself in the music scene.
In 1946, after his discharge from the Marines, Troup made a pivotal move to Los Angeles, the city that would serve as the backdrop for much of his career. Los Angeles in the postwar era was a bustling center for jazz and entertainment, attracting musicians, songwriters, and performers from across the country. Troup quickly found his place in this vibrant community, collaborating with some of the most notable figures in jazz and recording music that would help define the West Coast jazz sound.
One of the most significant moments of his career came shortly after his arrival in California, when he penned the iconic song “Route 66.” Inspired by the legendary highway that stretched from Chicago to Los Angeles, “Route 66” became an instant hit and remains one of the most enduring songs in the American musical canon. Nat King Cole’s rendition of the song in 1946 propelled it to even greater fame, and over the years, it has been covered by numerous artists, cementing Troup’s place in music history.
Songwriting Success and Recording Career
Bobby Troup’s songwriting talents extended beyond just one hit. In the years following the success of “Route 66,” he wrote and recorded several other popular songs, including “Baby, Baby All the Time” and “The Meaning of the Blues.” His unique ability to craft catchy, sophisticated lyrics set him apart as one of the most talented songwriters of his era. In addition to writing for himself, Troup composed songs that were recorded by some of the biggest names in jazz, pop, and R&B, including Frank Sinatra, Julie London, and Mel Tormé.
As a performer, Troup enjoyed success both as a solo artist and as a collaborator with other musicians. His recordings were well-received, blending traditional jazz with elements of swing and cool jazz that characterized the West Coast sound. Troup’s musical talents weren’t limited to just piano and vocals; he was also a skilled arranger and bandleader, working with various ensembles throughout his career.
One of the hallmarks of Troup’s music was his effortless blending of sophisticated jazz with accessible, mainstream appeal. This allowed him to reach a wide audience, appealing to both jazz purists and casual listeners. His distinctive vocal style—smooth, laid-back, and conversational—became one of his trademarks, earning him a loyal following among fans of the genre.
Marriage to Julie London and Musical Collaborations
In 1959, Bobby Troup married singer and actress Julie London, with whom he would collaborate on numerous musical projects. London was already a successful recording artist and actress in her own right, known for her sultry voice and hit songs such as “Cry Me a River.” Together, Troup and London became one of Hollywood’s most famous couples, frequently working together on recordings and live performances.
Troup played a significant role in shaping London’s musical career, serving as her musical director and producer on several albums. The two shared a creative synergy that was evident in their collaborations, and their work together further solidified Troup’s reputation as a skilled arranger and producer. Albums like Julie…At Home (1960) and Send for Me(1961) showcased their ability to blend Troup’s jazz sensibilities with London’s smoky, intimate vocal style, creating a unique sound that captivated audiences.
Their personal and professional partnership spanned several decades, and the pair remained together until Troup’s death in 1999. Their relationship was marked by mutual respect, love for music, and a shared dedication to their craft.
Transition to Television and Emergency!
While Bobby Troup was widely known for his contributions to the jazz world, he also made a significant impact as an actor. His transition to acting came naturally, given his charm and charisma, and by the 1960s, Troup began appearing in small roles in films and television.
Troup’s most famous acting role came in 1972 when he was cast as Dr. Joe Early on the NBC series Emergency!. Created by Jack Webb and Robert A. Cinader, Emergency! followed the lives of paramedics and emergency room staff in Los Angeles. Troup’s character, Dr. Early, was a compassionate and level-headed physician who frequently worked with paramedics Johnny Gage and Roy DeSoto, played by Randolph Mantooth and Kevin Tighe.
Troup’s portrayal of Dr. Early brought him a new level of fame and introduced him to a broader audience. His calm, authoritative demeanor was a perfect fit for the role, and viewers appreciated his character’s professionalism and empathy. Working alongside his wife, Julie London, who played nurse Dixie McCall, Troup became an integral part of the show’s success.
Emergency! was a groundbreaking series that helped popularize emergency medical services (EMS) in the United States, and Troup’s role as Dr. Early played a key part in the show’s educational and entertainment value. The show ran for six seasons and several television movies, cementing Troup’s place in television history.
Legacy and Enduring Influence
Bobby Troup’s career was marked by versatility, talent, and an enduring influence on both the music and television industries. As a songwriter, his contributions to the jazz and popular music world are undeniable. “Route 66” remains a timeless classic, covered by countless artists and still celebrated today for its iconic lyrics and catchy melody.
In addition to his work in music, Troup’s acting career, particularly his role on Emergency!, introduced him to new generations of fans who may not have been familiar with his earlier work. His portrayal of Dr. Joe Early remains one of the most beloved characters in medical television dramas, and his calm, cool demeanor made him a fan favorite.
Beyond his professional achievements, Troup’s influence as a mentor and collaborator extended to many musicians and artists. His work with Julie London, in particular, demonstrated his ability to elevate the careers of those around him, further cementing his legacy as both a performer and producer.
Bobby Troup’s life and career serve as a testament to his incredible range as an artist. Whether through his timeless jazz compositions, his television roles, or his collaborations with other musicians, Troup left a lasting mark on the entertainment industry, one that continues to be celebrated by fans and fellow artists alike. His contributions helped define the sound of mid-20th-century jazz, while his television work introduced him to audiences who admired his versatility and talent.