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Neil Sedaka, the famous singer, songwriter, and pianist, died on Friday, February 27, 2026, at the age of 86.
His family confirmed the news after reports surfaced that he went to a hospital earlier that morning.
While the official cause of death remains unknown, family members stated that he passed away after experiencing sudden health issues.
In a public statement, his family expressed their grief. They called him a "true rock and roll legend" and an "inspiration to millions."
They also noted that his loved ones will miss him deeply as an incredible human being.
Neil Sedaka built a music career that lasted more than sixty years.
He began his journey as a teenager in Brooklyn, where he showed early talent for the piano and classical music.
He soon shifted his focus to pop music, becoming a key figure in the Brill Building songwriting scene during the 1960s.
His work produced numerous chart-topping hits. He wrote and performed classics like "Breaking Up Is Hard to Do," "Calendar Girl," "Bad Blood," and "Laughter in the Rain."
Beyond his own singing, he wrote successful songs for other artists. His writing credits include Connie Francis' "Stupid Cupid" and the Captain & Tennille hit "Love Will Keep Us Together."
Throughout his life, he received several honors, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and an induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
He continued to record and perform music long after his commercial peak in the 1970s. He is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Leba Strassberg, and their two children.
