GREATGOLD NEWS – Neil Sedaka, the legendary songwriter who penned numerous huge hits in the 1960s, 70s, 80s and beyond, has died suddenly at 86. There was a time, way before the internet, during the early days of rock and roll, when broadcast radio stations were king, you could not go through an hour in the day without one of his hits popping into your ears from the radio speaker. Sedaka is credited with writing numerous songs for himself and many other stars throughout several decades of popular music, from “Stupid Cupid” (1958) for Connie Francis, and “Calendar Girl” (1959), “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do” (1960), “Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen” (1961) and many more for himself and some of the biggest names in show business.

Neil Sedaka also wrote and recorded “Laughter In The Rain”, “Bad Blood” and many other colossal hits for himself over the years. In addition to writing catchy selections for himself, he also wrote many unforgettable tunes for Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Tom Jones, Captain and Tenille, the Monkees, and others. He was a well renowned American singer, songwriter, composer, pianist, and one of the most prolific songwriters of his era, having written or co-written more than 500 songs. Neil Sedaka was born March 13, 1939 and died in Los Angeles February 27, 2026. His music will live on in the library of GreatGold Internet radio and elsewhere.

Neil Sedaka’s voice and ability to craft tunes that pleased the ears and sensibilities of teenagers and adults during the late fifties, sixties and for many years after, made this man a hero to many. Now, at 86, he has passed on and has left song construction and vocal recording to others. Many of his fans and, perhaps, not so complete fans, feel very fortunate to have been on this earth to enjoy the 500 or so unforgettable songs created in his lifetime. Thank you, Neil Sedaka. – GreatGold.