Neil Sedaka, the legendary singer-songwriter who rose to worldwide fame in the 1960s and enjoyed a career that spanned decades, has died at 86.
According to TMZ, Sedaka was not feeling well Friday morning and was transported by ambulance to a local hospital. The L.A. County West Hollywood sheriff’s station told the outlet that deputies assisted the fire department on a medical request call and paramedics transported him to a hospital at about 8 a.m.
His family confirmed his passing in a statement to TMZ, saying, “Our family is devastated by the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Neil Sedaka. A true rock and roll legend, an inspiration to millions, but most importantly, at least to those of us who were lucky enough to know him, an incredible human being who will be deeply missed.”
Sedaka’s musical legacy is vast. He scored multiple No. 1 hits in the early 1960s, including “Oh! Carol,” “Calendar Girl” and “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do.” He experienced a resurgence in the mid-1970s with hits such as “Laughter in the Rain” and “Bad Blood.” A founding member of The Tokens, he went on to be nominated for five Grammy Awards, was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1983 and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Beyond the stage and studio, Sedaka was deeply connected to his Jewish heritage. Though he did not grow up in an Orthodox home, he often spoke of the strong Jewish identity that shaped his family life. He attended High Holiday services with his wife and children and spoke openly of his pride in being Jewish.
He maintained a deep affection for Israel, where he performed in the 1960s in cities such as Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Haifa. He recorded songs in Hebrew and remained a supporter of Jewish charities and organizations. In later years, he produced a Yiddish album, seeking to preserve songs he felt were disappearing from Jewish culture. He once said he wanted to be remembered first and foremost as a Jew, alongside his accomplishments as a composer and singer.
Sedaka is survived by his wife, Leba, whom he married in 1962, and their two children.
As fans around the world reflect on his music and legacy, we also remember the family who now grieves a husband, father and grandfather. May God comfort them in this time of loss. We pray for peace, strength and the assurance of His presence as they mourn.
Prepared by Charisma Media Staff.
