Neil Sedaka, legendary singer-songwriter, dies at 86
File: Neil Sedaka, U.S. pianist and singer-songwriter, holding his hands in the air to greet the audience during a concert at the New Victoria Theatre in London, circa 1976. (Photo by David Redfern/Redferns/Getty Images)
Neil Sedaka, the prolific songwriter and singer known for hits such as "Oh! Carol," "Calendar Girl," and "Breaking Up is Hard," has died.
Sedaka was 86 years old.
What they're saying:
"Our family is devastated by the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Neil Sedaka," his family said in a statement. "A true rock and roll legend, an inspiration to millions, but most importantly, at least to those of us who were lucky enough to know him, an incredible human being who will be deeply missed."
No other details of his death were immediately available.
Natural lyricist
The backstory:
Sedaka was a key member of the Brill Building songwriting factory and created popular songs throughout the 1950s, 60s and 70s, such as "Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen."
After a bit of a break, Sedaka reemerged during the 80s with huge hits such as "Laughter in the Rain" and "Bad Blood."
Sedaka still played dozens of concerts a year well into his 80s. He retained the enthusiasm and broad vocal range of his youth and never tired of the standards he had sung hundreds of times.
Dig deeper:
Sedaka’s songs sold millions worldwide and have been covered by a range of performers, from Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra to The 5th Dimension and Nickelback.
Sedaka helped propel the career of Connie Francis with "Stupid Cupid" and "Where the Boys Are," the latter for the soundtrack of the movie with the same name.
He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, but the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame eluded him despite a fan petition drive.
Sedaka married wife Leba in 1962. They had two children. Daughter Dara recorded a duet with dad in 1980, "Should’ve Never Let You Go." It was a hit, but she never joined him in the music business. Son Marc is a film and television writer.
The Source: Information for this article was taken from reporting by People magazine, TMZ and The Associated Press. This storyw as reported from San Jose.