Singer-Songwriter Neil Sedaka Dies at 86

Singer-Songwriter Neil Sedaka Dies at 86

Neil Sedaka, Legendary Singer-Songwriter, Passes Away at 86

The music world mourns the loss of Neil Sedaka, the celebrated singer-songwriter who passed away in Los Angeles on Friday at the age of 86. His family confirmed the news, leaving behind a legacy of timeless hits and unforgettable melodies.

A Career Marked by Chart-Topping Success

Sedaka's career spanned decades, marked by an impressive string of chart-topping successes. He penned and performed nine songs that reached the U.S. Top 10, including three that soared to the number one spot: "Breaking Up Is Hard To Do," "Laughter in the Rain," and "Bad Blood." His talent extended beyond his own performances, as he also wrote popular hits for other artists, most notably Captain & Tennille's iconic "Love Will Keep Us Together."

A Songwriter for the Ages

Sedaka's influence transcended generations. He achieved the remarkable feat of having songs in the U.S. Top 20 in five different decades, solidifying his status as a true songwriting legend. His contributions to the music industry were recognized with five Grammy nominations and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In 1983, he was rightfully inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Early Life and Musical Education

Born in Brooklyn on March 13, 1939, Sedaka's musical journey began early. He honed his skills at the prestigious Juilliard School of Music, laying the foundation for his future success. Before embarking on his own recording career, he co-wrote songs for Connie Francis, including the memorable hits "Stupid Cupid" and "Where the Boys Are."

Anime Contributions: Beyond Pop Music

Sedaka's musical talents extended beyond the realm of pop music. He composed the melodies for three songs in the Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam television anime series. These included the first opening theme song, "Zeta - Toki o Koete" (Zeta - Transcending Times), originally known as "Better Days Are Coming," the second opening theme song, "Mizu no Hoshi e Ai o Komete" (From an Aqueous Star with Love), from the unreleased song "For Us to Decide," and the ending theme song, "Hoshizora no Believe" (Believe in the Starry Sky), originally known as "Bad and Beautiful." His work continues to resonate with fans, as evidenced by Sugizo and KOM_I's cover of "Mizu no Hoshi e Ai o Komete," which was later used in the Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin: Advent of the Red Comet television broadcast.

Legacy and Family

Neil Sedaka is survived by his wife, Leba Strassberg, his two children, and his grandchildren. His daughter, Dara Sedaka, also contributed to the world of anime music, singing the ending theme song "Angel Queen" for the Queen Millennia Movie. His musical legacy will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come. His family will feel the loss deeply. His memory will live on through his music.

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