Dave Bartholomew 1918 – 2019

Biography

Dave Bartholomew was born on December 24, 1918, in Edgard, Louisiana, a place and time that would shape his remarkable musical journey. Throughout his long life, he established himself as a talented musician, bandleader, composer, and arranger whose contributions to American music spanned decades. His work as a record producer further demonstrated his deep understanding of the craft and his commitment to nurturing musical talent. Based in Louisiana, Bartholomew became an integral part of the vibrant musical landscape that defined the region during much of the twentieth century.

Over the course of his career, Bartholomew wore many creative hats, moving fluidly between performing, arranging, and producing. His multifaceted approach to music allowed him to influence the industry in profound ways, both through his own performances and through his work developing other artists’ talent. His arrangements and productions reflected a keen ear for musicality and an ability to translate artistic vision into sound.

Dave Bartholomew passed away on June 23, 2019, in Metairie, Louisiana, at the age of 100, succumbing to heart failure. His century-long life represented a full and productive engagement with American music, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate through the generations of musicians and music lovers he touched throughout his extraordinary career.