The singer and songwriter Neil Sedaka celebrates 86
Throughout his career, Sedaka has written or co-written over 500 songs, with his work recorded by legends like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley
The singer and songwriter Neil Sedaka celebrates 86
Neil Sedaka was born on March 13, 1939, in Brooklyn, New York. His father, Mordechai “Mac” Sedaka, was a taxi driver of Lebanese Jewish descent, while his mother, Eleanor (née Appel), was of Polish and Russian Jewish heritage. Sedaka’s musical talent emerged early; he attended the Juilliard School of Music’s Preparatory Division on Saturdays, focusing on piano.
In 1957, Sedaka co-founded the doo-wop group The Tokens but soon embarked on a solo career. Collaborating with lyricist Howard Greenfield, he penned numerous hits in the late 1950s and early 1960s, including “Oh! Carol,” “Calendar Girl,” and “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do.” His songwriting prowess also benefited other artists; for instance, he co-wrote “Stupid Cupid,” which became a hit for Connie Francis.
After a period of diminished chart presence in the late 1960s, Sedaka experienced a resurgence in the 1970s. Relocating to the UK, he collaborated with artists like Elton John, leading to successful albums such as “Sedaka’s Back” and “The Hungry Years.” During this era, he released chart-toppers like “Laughter in the Rain” and “Bad Blood.” Additionally, his composition “Love Will Keep Us Together” became a Grammy-winning hit for Captain & Tennille.
Throughout his career, Sedaka has written or co-written over 500 songs, with his work recorded by legends like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. His enduring influence on the music industry was recognized with his induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1983.
In his personal life, Sedaka married Leba Strassberg in 1962, and they have two children, Dara and Marc. Dara has collaborated with her father, notably on the duet “Should’ve Never Let You Go” in 1980.
Today, Sedaka remains active in music, sharing performances and engaging with fans through social media platforms. In January 2025, he performed a duet of “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” with his 19-year-old grandson, Mike, showcasing the family’s musical legacy.
Look back at Neil Sedaka performing the hit “Breakin’ Up Is Hard to Do” in 1966
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