Culture

Portland musician Dave Frishberg, who wrote ‘I’m Just a Bill,’ dies at 88

By Jeff Thompson (OPB)
Nov. 18, 2021 4:41 p.m.

After decades of making music, Portland songwriter and jazz pianist Dave Frishberg died Wednesday at the age of 88.

Frishberg was known for writing and performing songs for grownups, like “Peel Me a Grape” and “My Attorney Bernie.”

THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR:

But kids of all ages may also recognize the song “I’m Just a Bill, which he wrote for Schoolhouse Rock! in 1975.

Frishberg grew up in the Midwest and moved to Portland in 1986.

His wife, April Magnusson, announced in 2019 that he had retired, after suffering a series of medical setbacks. His fans raised more than $60,000 to help with his medical bills.

On his GoFundMe page Wednesday, Magnusson wrote those donations gave him the support and care he needed as he neared the end of his life.

She asked fans to share memories on his Facebook page or donate to the music nonprofit MusiCares in his memory.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR:
THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR:
THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR: