Legendary singer, pianist, and songwriter Neil Sedaka has died at age 86. Born in Brooklyn and classically trained at Juilliard, Sedaka chose to write popular music instead, quickly rising to fame during the early years of rock and roll.

Partnering with lyricist Howard Greenfield, Sedaka wrote over 1,000 songs, scoring early classic hits like “Oh! Carol,” “Calendar Girl,” and “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do”. While the arrival of the British Invasion slowed his career, he launched a massive 1970s comeback with hits like “Laughter in the Rain” and wrote major tracks for other artists, including “Love Will Keep Us Together”.

Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, Sedaka continued performing well into his eighties, leaving a legacy defined by his mastery of bright, emotionally clear melodies. He is survived by his wife Leba, their children, and grandchildren.

Although the iconic musician has passed away, his melodies will live on across generations. His catalog of songs remains an enduring part of popular music history that continues to connect listeners around the world.