Andy Paley, the creative force behind the music of SpongeBob SquarePants, passed away on Nov. 20 at the age of 72 after a brief battle with cancer. The news was confirmed by his band, Tom Kenny & the Hi-Seas, as well as Nickelodeon.
“We were blessed to have had Andy,” the band declared in a statement. “He gave us all a purpose and infinite joy, a legacy the band will continue to honor.” Nickelodeon described him as a “creative genius” who helped bring the world of Bikini Bottom to life through music.
Paley, a frequent collaborator with Brian Wilson, worked with legendary artists like Jerry Lee Lewis, the Ramones, Madonna, Elton John, and Patti Smith. He first gained prominence in the ’70s as part of the Paley Brothers band with his sibling Jonathan.
In animation, Paley began with The Ren & Stimpy Show in the ’90s and joined SpongeBob SquarePants in 2004 after being recruited by creator Stephen Hillenburg. Alongside Tom Kenny, the voice of SpongeBob, and drummer Tom Ardolino, Paley created memorable songs like “The Best Day Ever.”
Kenny remarked on their friendship and collaboration, describing it as “one of the greatest true joys” in his life.
Paley is survived by his wife, Heather Crist Paley; their two children, Jackson and Charlie; and four brothers.