Andrew Gold was an American singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, recognized primarily for his soft rock and pop styles. He gained prominence in the 1970s, particularly for his hit singles "Lonely Boy" and "Thank You for Being a Friend." Gold was also a key contributor to the sound of Linda Ronstadt's backing band, playing a variety of instruments on her successful albums. His work has left a significant imprint on the soft rock genre, making him a pivotal figure in its development.