What's happened
Neil Sedaka, a singer-songwriter known for hits like 'Breaking Up Is Hard to Do' and 'Laughter in the Rain,' died on Friday at age 86. His career spanned decades, with songs covered by major artists and a lasting influence on pop music. No details of his death are available.
What's behind the headline?
Neil Sedaka's death marks the loss of a significant figure in American pop music. His career highlights the evolution of songwriting from the Brill Building era to contemporary covers. Sedaka's ability to adapt and maintain vocal strength into his 80s demonstrates his enduring talent. His influence is evident in the wide range of artists who covered his work, from Elvis Presley to Nickelback. The timing of his passing underscores the ongoing appreciation for his contributions, and his legacy will likely continue through his extensive catalog and influence on future musicians.
What the papers say
The Times of Israel reports Sedaka's death at age 86, highlighting his early life and career achievements. The New York Times emphasizes his collaborations and influence, noting his continued performances into his 80s. AP News and The Independent provide additional context, including his role in the Brill Building and his broad vocal range. All sources agree on his importance as a songwriter and performer, with some variation in details about his death and career highlights.
How we got here
Sedaka grew up in Brooklyn and was recognized early for his musical talent. He was signed to RCA at 19 and became a key figure in the Brill Building songwriting scene, collaborating with Howard Greenfield. His songs reflected the innocence of the late 1950s and early 1960s and later enjoyed renewed success in the 1970s.
Go deeper
- What were Neil Sedaka's most famous songs?
- How did Sedaka influence other artists?
- What is Sedaka's legacy in today's music scene?
More on these topics
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Neil Sedaka is an American pop singer, pianist, composer and record producer. Since his music career began in 1957 as a short-lived founding member of the Tokens, he has sold millions of records as a performer and has written or co-written over 500 songs