Neil Sedaka, Singer of “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do,” Dies at 86

Neil Sedaka, the American singer-songwriter and pianist best known for his 1962 chart-topping hit “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do,” has died at the age of 86.

A defining voice of early 1960s pop music, Sedaka built a decades-long career marked by catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and remarkable versatility.

Rising to fame during the golden era of rock and roll, he delivered a string of hits including “Calendar Girl,” “Happy Birthday, Sweet Sixteen,” and “Laughter in the Rain.” Uniquely, “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do” became the only song to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in two completely different versions by the same artist — first as an upbeat pop track in 1962 and later as a slow ballad in 1975.

Beyond performing, Sedaka was a prolific songwriter, collaborating closely with lyricist Howard Greenfield and contributing to numerous classics recorded by other artists.

His influence spanned generations, with his music remaining a staple of oldies radio and nostalgic playlists worldwide. Tributes from fellow musicians and fans have highlighted his enduring legacy as one of pop music’s most consistent hitmakers, whose melodies defined an era and continued to resonate well into the 21st century.