Cy Coleman did have small impact on jazz scene, but his major importance comes as composer and force in theatre. He had a recital at Steinway Hall at the age of six, and was playing Manhattan super clubs at 17. Coleman formed a trio in 1948 while still a student at New York College of Music. He began to attract attention with two hit singles he wrote sung by Frank Sinatra in the '50s; "Try to Change Me Now" and "Witchcraft." He also penned "Firefly" for Tony Bennett in 1958. The musical "Wildcraft" which he wrote with lyricist Carolyn Leigh starred Lucille Ball in 1960. Then came string of stage successes, including "Little Me," "Sweet Charity" and "Seesaw." Since then, Coleman's had other stage hits, notably "Barnum." He's also had songs featured in films, covered by Barbra Streisand and many others. Coleman has also recorded many albums.
