Johnny was writing and working with lyricists and publishers when he was introduced to Johnny Mercer. They decided to collaborate and wrote three songs together – “Baby O” (Dean Martin), “I’ve Waited for a Waltz” (Tony Bennett), and “Young and Free,” recorded by Johnny’s Combo and also as a demo with guitar and voice. This Mercer song has never been heard!

Johnny wrote one song with Sammy Cahn, “Anything But Me,” which was never recorded. Here is the upbeat swing tune that Johnny sings himself and a later rendition with the wonderful jazz singer/pianist Bill Cantos.

Paul Francis Webster was a three-time Academy Award-winning lyricist. They teamed up and wrote “What Is Love.”  It was recorded many times as both an instrumental and vocal track but never released. Pete Jolly recorded a beautiful version here.