Gary Portnoy Napoli and Judy Quay). He also recorded and released a self-titled album in 1980 for Columbia Records. Portnoy also wrote several songs for the NBC television series, "Fame", including the Emmy-nominated track for Best Original Song, "I Still Believe In Me" (co-written by Susan Sheridan) as well as "It's Gonna Be a Long Night" (co-written by Estelle Levitt). Both songs were featured on the 1982 album, "The Kids from "Fame"". Portnoy also received an Emmy nomination for the "Cheers" theme, as well as six consecutive ASCAP awards during the 1980s for the Most Performed Television Themes of the year. He
Jerry Portnoy released an instructional package, "Jerry Portnoy's Blues Harmonica Masterclass", in 1997. In 2001, he released his second solo album, "Down in the Mood Room". Known for his dark, amplified tone, he has long been a favorite of both critics and peers. "The New York Times" (1987) said, "Mr. Portnoy crests like an alto saxophone." "Down Beat Magazine" (2002) said, "Portnoy has few equals as a harmonica player, blues or otherwise." Rick Estrin, a leading professional player as well, was quoted in "Blues Revue" (2002) as saying, "He can get so much sound out of that harp—such a beautiful, just enormous,