Legendary Songwriter Billy Steinberg Dies at 75

Co-writer of hits like 'Like a Virgin,' 'True Colors,' and 'Eternal Flame' passes away in Los Angeles.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Billy Steinberg, the acclaimed songwriter who co-wrote numerous pop classics with his longtime collaborator Tom Kelly, has died at the age of 75 in Los Angeles. Steinberg and Kelly were behind hits recorded by artists like Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, The Bangles, and Whitney Houston.

Why it matters

Steinberg and Kelly's songs defined the sound of pop music in the 1980s and 1990s, with their compositions becoming some of the most recognizable and beloved tracks of the era. Their induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2011 cemented their legacy as two of the most influential and successful songwriting duos of their time.

The details

Steinberg, who usually wrote the lyrics, and Kelly, who often composed the music, scored an impressive string of hits through the '80s and '90s. Their collaborations included Madonna's 'Like a Virgin,' Cyndi Lauper's 'True Colors,' The Bangles' 'Eternal Flame,' Whitney Houston's 'So Emotional,' The Pretenders' 'I'll Stand By You,' and Heart's 'Alone.' 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.

The players

Billy Steinberg

A renowned songwriter who, with his longtime collaborator Tom Kelly, co-wrote numerous pop hits in the 1980s and 1990s.

Tom Kelly

Steinberg's musical partner, who often composed the music for their collaborative songs.

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What they’re saying

“I'm so sorry to hear that my friend Billy Steinberg has passed away. He was such a nice guy and very supportive. My thoughts are with his family, loved ones, and Tom during this sad time.”

— Cyndi Lauper (Instagram)

“He was a wonderful spirit.”

— Nancy Wilson, Heart (Instagram)

The takeaway

The passing of Billy Steinberg marks the end of an era for pop music, as he and his longtime collaborator Tom Kelly were responsible for crafting some of the most iconic and enduring songs of the 1980s and 1990s. Their work defined the sound of that era and left an indelible mark on the industry.