Legendary Singer-Songwriter Neil Sedaka, Known for ‘Breaking Up Is Hard to Do,’ Dies
Neil Sedaka, a legendary singer-songwriter best known for hits like “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do,” has passed away at the age of 86. A representative confirmed the news, and his family expressed their devastation in a statement. They described him as a true rock and roll legend and an incredible human being.
Early Life and Musical Journey
Neil Sedaka was born on March 13, 1939, in Brooklyn, New York. He grew up in Brighton Beach, displaying musical talent early on. His second-grade teacher recommended piano lessons, and he soon auditioned and secured a scholarship to Juilliard’s Preparatory Division for Children.
- Birth Date: March 13, 1939
- Hometown: Brooklyn, New York
- Musical Education: Juilliard School of Music
Initially pursuing classical music, Sedaka shifted his focus to pop music as a teenager. At 13, he formed a songwriting partnership with Howard Greenfield, leading to a fruitful collaboration for many years.
Rise to Fame
During his high school years, Sedaka formed a doo-wop group called the Linc-Tones. Following his graduation, he embarked on a solo career in 1957, achieving local hits before the Linc-Tones evolved into the Tokens. Their single “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” became a global sensation in 1961.
By the early 1960s, Sedaka and Greenfield were key figures in the Brill Building, crafting hits like Connie Francis’ “Stupid Cupid.” Sedaka’s early solo work generated numerous popular tracks including:
- “Oh! Carol”
- “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do”
- “Calendar Girl”
- “Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen”
Impact and Resurgence
The arrival of the Beatles brought changes that impacted Sedaka’s early career. He shifted from performing to songwriting, creating successful tracks for icons like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. In 1972, his album “Solitaire” marked a significant comeback, eventually leading to his success in Australia with “Star-Crossed Lovers.”
His career enjoyed a revival in the mid-1970s, spurred by Elton John. The collaboration led to his renowned hits:
- “Laughter in the Rain” – U.S. No. 1
- “Bad Blood” – U.S. No. 1
Legacy and Later Years
In 1983, Sedaka was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and in 1978, he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His songs continue to resonate, evidenced by Clay Aiken’s performance of “Solitaire” on “American Idol,” which revived interest in his music.
Sedaka officially retired from songwriting in 2022, selling his catalog in a deal with Primary Wave Music in 2024. He is survived by his wife, Leba Strassberg, and their two children, Marc and Dara.
