Neil Sedaka, the renowned singer-songwriter, passed away at the age of 86, and the cause of his death has been disclosed. Sedaka, known for his hit songs like Breaking Up Is Hard to Do, was hospitalized in Los Angeles in February before his family confirmed his demise.
According to a death certificate obtained by Fox News in the US, Sedaka succumbed to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, with kidney failure playing a contributing role. Atherosclerosis occurs when fat and cholesterol accumulate in the arteries.
In a statement to The Mirror, Sedaka’s family expressed deep sorrow over the loss of their beloved husband, father, and grandfather. They described Sedaka as a rock and roll legend who inspired millions and emphasized his exceptional character that will be greatly missed by those who knew him.
Throughout his extensive music career that began in the late 1950s, Sedaka composed or collaborated on over 500 songs. Some of his well-known hits include Oh! Carol (1959), Calendar Girl (1960), and Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen (1961). Breaking Up Is Hard to Do, released in 1962, remains one of his signature songs.
Despite his age, Sedaka continued to perform at numerous concerts each year, showcasing his enduring passion for delivering his classic tunes. His music has garnered global success, with artists such as Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and Nickelback covering his songs.
A skilled pianist and a five-time Grammy award nominee, Sedaka also penned hits for various other notable musicians during his six-decade-long career. He was a significant contributor to the ‘Brill Building’ songwriting factory and collaborated with lyricist Howard Greenfield, his childhood neighbor, on multiple hit songs.
Sedaka tied the knot with Leba Strassberg in 1962, and they had two children, Dara, a singer, and Marc, a writer. While Sedaka mostly kept his family life private, he did share some insights, particularly on National Grandparents’ Day last September.