Rupert Holmes is a British-American composer, singer-songwriter, playwright, and author whose career has spanned multiple creative fields. Best known for his 1979 hit “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)”, Holmes has left an indelible mark on music, Broadway, and storytelling.

Born David Goldstein in Northwich, England, Holmes grew up in New York, where he developed his passion for music. He began his career as a session musician, writing and arranging songs for artists like Barry Manilow, Dolly Parton, and The Drifters. His solo career took off in the 1970s, culminating in the release of Escape (The Piña Colada Song), which became a No. 1 hit in both 1979 and 1980, making it the first pop song to top the charts in two different decades.

Holmes also found success with other songs, including “Him” and “Timothy”, the latter stirring controversy for its dark storytelling. His ability to craft narrative-driven lyrics set him apart from many of his contemporaries.

Holmes transitioned into theater, where he became a Tony Award-winning playwright and composer. His musical The Mystery of Edwin Drood, based on Charles Dickens’ unfinished novel, won multiple Tony Awards, including Best Musical. He later wrote Curtains, another acclaimed Broadway production.

His theatrical work is known for its interactive storytelling, allowing audiences to influence the outcome of performances—a rare and innovative approach in musical theater.

Beyond music and theater, Holmes has made his mark in television and literature. He created the AMC series Remember WENN, a nostalgic look at the golden age of radio. His novels, including Murder Your Employer: The McMasters Guide to Homicide, have earned him recognition as a New York Times bestselling author.

Holmes continues to explore new creative ventures. Most recently, he partnered with Alloy Entertainment to develop a romantic comedy film based on Escape (The Piña Colada Song), marking the first time the song’s story will be adapted into a movie.

With a career spanning over five decades, Rupert Holmes remains a versatile and influential artist, proving that storytelling—whether through music, theater, or literature—can transcend generations.