“Leighton studied at Tufts University and Boston College, receiving degrees in chemical engineering and journalism, before beginning his writing career at Women’s Wear Daily, in 1951. In 1955, he moved to The Voice, which carried his byline until 2004. His honors during his Voicetenure included two ASCAP/Deems Taylor Awards and a letter of distinction from the American Music Center. He also wrote for Musical America and Travel + Leisure.”