Jerry Fuller dead at 85: Songwriter who penned hits Travelin’ Man and Young Girl passed away from lung cancer complications

Legendary songwriter and producer Jerry Fuller has died at the age of 85.

Fuller passed away on Thursday at his home in Sherman Oaks following complications from lung cancer, his publicist Bobbi Marcus told The Hollywood Reporter. 

His hits include ‘Travelin’ Man,’ for Ricky Nelson, ‘Young Girl,’ for Gary Puckett, ‘Show and Tell,’ for Al Wilson and ‘Little Green Apples’ for O.C. Smith.  

Following his death Puckett shared in a statement, ‘What can I say about a guy whose vision defined my musical identity and destiny. What can ANYONE say about a man who gave SO much to SO many through his talents and efforts in the world of music.’

‘Thank you, Jerry! The world was a better place with you in it.’ 

Fuller’s collaboration with Puckett began with the million-selling ‘Woman, Woman’ in 1967.

He went on to write and produce three more chart-topping hits for the band, including the iconic ‘Young Girl,’ propelling them to outsell The Beatles in 1968.

Songwriter Diane Warren paid her respects on Twitter, writing, ‘Write In Power Jerry Fuller. Thank U for the great songs that helped paint my childhood.’ 

Fuller also discovered Glen Campbell in 1960, convincing him to relocate to Los Angeles.

Campbell then assisted Fuller in demoing ‘Travelin’ Man,’ originally intended for Sam Cooke.

However, Ricky Nelson’s rendition of the song became a number-one hit in 1961. Nelson would go on to record 19 songs penned by Fuller, including classics like ‘Young World’ and ‘Congratulations.’

Fuller also produced O.C. Smith’s No. 2 hit ‘Little Green Apples’ in 1968 and wrote and produced Al Wilson’s chart-topping ‘Show and Tell’ in 1974.

His hits include ‘Travelin’ Man,’ for Ricky Nelson, ‘Young Girl,’ for Gary Puckett, ‘Show and Tell,’ for Al Wilson and ‘Little Green Apples’ for O.C. Smith; Seen circa 1970

Fuller was born in Fort Worth, Texas, on November 19, 1938, and was one of four siblings.

His musical journey began early. He performed as half of the Fuller Bros. duo with his brother Bill in local minstrel shows and jamborees.

After he graduated high school in 1957, he embarked on a solo career, releasing his debut album, ‘Teenage Love,’ a year later.