Neil Sedaka
Neil Sedaka, born on March 13, 1939, in Brooklyn, New York, is an acclaimed American singer, songwriter, and pianist. He emerged as a prominent figure in the music industry in the late 1950s and early 1960s, known for his significant contributions to the pop, rock and roll, and doo-wop genres. Sedaka's career began in 1957, and he has since sold millions of records worldwide, writing or co-writing over 500 songs, often collaborating with lyricists Howard "Howie" Greenfield and Phil Cody.
Sedaka's early life was steeped in music; he attended the Juilliard School of Music's Preparatory Division for Children, showcasing his talent as a pianist. Despite his classical training, Sedaka gravitated towards pop music, forming a fruitful songwriting partnership with Howard Greenfield, whom he met at age 13. Together, they became key figures in the Brill Building sound, crafting numerous hits for Sedaka and other artists.
Sedaka's initial success came with a series of hit singles, including "Oh! Carol," "Calendar Girl," "Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen," and "Breaking Up Is Hard to Do." Although his popularity waned during the British Invasion of the mid-1960s, he experienced a resurgence in the 1970s with chart-topping hits like "Laughter in the Rain" and "Bad Blood." Beyond his own recordings, Sedaka penned hits for other artists, such as "Stupid Cupid" for Connie Francis and "Love Will Keep Us Together" for Captain & Tennille.
Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1983, Sedaka remains active in the music scene, performing and engaging with fans through social media. His enduring legacy is marked by his ability to adapt and thrive in the ever-evolving music industry.