On February 27, 2026, the music industry lost a legend with the passing of Neil Sedaka. He was 86 years old. Born on March 13, 1940 in Brooklyn, New York, Sedaka showed a natural talent for music from a young age. He began taking piano lessons at the age of eight and by the time he was 13, he was already performing in local jazz clubs. Sedaka's musical career took off in the late 1950s and he quickly became known for his catchy pop hits. He achieved numerous chart-topping singles including "Breaking Up Is Hard to Do," "Calendar Girl," and "Oh! Carol." His music resonated with audiences worldwide and earned him a devoted fan base. Aside from his success as a solo artist, Sedaka also collaborated with other renowned musicians, writing hits for artists such as The Monkees, Elvis Presley, and ABBA. His talents as a songwriter were widely recognized, and he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1983. Sedaka's musical career spanned over six decades, and he continued to perform and write music well into his later years. He composed hundreds of songs, released over 30 studio albums, and toured around the world to sold-out audiences. He also received numerous accolades and awards, solidifying his place as one of the most influential and beloved figures in the music industry. In addition to his musical accomplishments, Sedaka was also a devoted husband and father. He is survived by his wife, Leba, and their two children, Dara and Marc. Neil Sedaka's impact on the music world will be remembered for years to come. He leaves behind a legacy of timeless music that will continue to inspire future generations. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and fans, but his music will live on forever. We honor and cherish the life and legacy of Neil Sedaka, a talented composer, pianist, recording artist, singer, songwriter, and singer-songwriter. May he rest in peace.