• Famed composer Charles Strouse passed away at the age of 96.
• Strouse is best known for musicals like 'Annie' and 'Bye Bye Birdie.'
• His work earned him multiple Tony Awards and a Grammy.
• He continued engaging with the theater community into his 90s.
• Strouse's influence extended to various media, with his music featured in films and sampled by artists.

Charles Strouse, the celebrated composer behind iconic Broadway productions such as 'Annie' and 'Bye Bye Birdie', passed away at his home in New York City at the age of 96, as confirmed by his family. Throughout a career that spanned over 50 years, Strouse made significant contributions to musical theater, earning three Tony Awards as well as a Grammy and an Emmy for his work. His most renowned compositions include “Tomorrow” from 'Annie' and “Put On a Happy Face” from 'Bye Bye Birdie,' which marked his Broadway debut in 1960, according to The New York Times, HuffPost, and Los Angeles Times.

Beloved for his extraordinary ability to craft memorable melodies, Strouse was also known for his generous spirit and deep connections to theater, staying active in the community well into his later years. He was noted for emotionally connecting with performances of his songs, as seen when Jenn Thompson, a former cast member of 'Annie', recounted Strouse tearing up during auditions. She described his response: “That was you. That used to be you,” highlighting his dedication and emotional investment in his work, according to HuffPost and Los Angeles Times.

Strouse’s works made a significant impact across various forms of media, including the theme song for the legendary sitcom ‘All in the Family,’ further broadening his influence in American culture. Songs from his musicals have permeated popular music, exemplified by Jay-Z's sampling of “It’s the Hard-Knock Life” on his acclaimed single in 1998. Strouse's ability to blend classical melodic structure with contemporary themes contributed to the enduring popularity of his music, according to The New York Times and Los Angeles Times.