Acclaimed Songwriter Billy Steinberg Dies at 75

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Billy Steinberg, the acclaimed songwriter who co-wrote numerous pop hits with partner Tom Kelly in the 1980s and 1990s, has died at the age of 75 in Los Angeles. Steinberg and Kelly penned classics such as Madonna's 'Like a Virgin,' Cyndi Lauper's 'True Colors,' and The Bangles' 'Eternal Flame,' among many other chart-topping songs recorded by major artists.

Why it matters

Steinberg and Kelly were one of the most successful and influential songwriting duos of their era, crafting an impressive catalog of enduring pop hits that have become part of the cultural fabric. Their songs have been covered by a wide range of artists and continue to be staples on radio and in movies and TV shows.

The details

Steinberg, who usually wrote the lyrics, and Kelly, who often composed the music, scored a string of major hits through the 1980s and 1990s. In addition to the songs mentioned, their collaborations included Whitney Houston's 'So Emotional,' The Pretenders' 'I'll Stand By You,' Heart's 'Alone,' and The Divinyls' 'I Touch Myself.' After Kelly retired, Steinberg continued writing with other partners, penning hits like Celine Dion's 'Falling Into You' and JoJo's 'Too Little Too Late'.

• Billy Steinberg died on February 16, 2026 in Los Angeles.
• Steinberg and Tom Kelly were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2011.

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