Neil Sedaka, Legendary Singer-Songwriter, Dies at 86

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Neil Sedaka, a legendary singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the 1960s with hits like 'Breaking Up Is Hard to Do,' 'Bad Blood,' and 'Love Will Keep Us Together,' has died at the age of 86. Sedaka, a Brooklyn native, had a six-decade-plus career and was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1983.

Why it matters

Sedaka was a pioneering figure in the Brill Building era of pop songwriting, penning hits for himself and other artists. His music left an indelible mark on popular culture, with songs that have endured for generations. His passing marks the end of an era for classic American songwriting.

The details

Sedaka scored three No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 and nine in the Top 10, primarily during his peak years in the early 1960s and a mid-1970s comeback assisted by Elton John. He also wrote many songs that were hits for other artists, most notably Connie Francis' 'Stupid Cupid' and the Captain and Tennille's 'Love Will Keep Us Together.' Sedaka continued to tour and record for many years after his commercial peak.

• Sedaka was born on March 13, 1939 in Brooklyn, New York.
• He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1983.
• Sedaka received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1978.