Neil Sedaka at 85 still looks amazing

Neil Sedaka is a name that has resonated with music lovers for decades. Known for his captivating melodies and warm voice, Sedaka has left an indelible mark on the music industry.

Married to his wife, Leba, for over 60 years, Sedaka’s life has been filled with love, music, and perseverance. Though his journey in the entertainment world had its ups and downs, Sedaka’s passion for music never waned, and neither did his devotion to his family.

Born in 1939, Neil Sedaka’s musical career began at an early age. He was a gifted pianist, attending Julliard’s Preparatory for Children on a scholarship. At just 13, he teamed up with songwriter Howard Greenfield to form a songwriting duo that would create some of the biggest hits in pop music, including Sedaka’s own “Breaking Up is Hard to Do” and Connie Francis’ “Stupid Cupid.”

Their early success didn’t come easy. Sedaka and Greenfield worked long hours in a small, windowless cubicle in New York’s famous Brill Building. Despite the challenges, their determination paid off, and Sedaka became the first songwriter at the Brill Building to perform his own songs. His hit “Oh! Carol” was written for his high school girlfriend, Carole King, and became one of his signature songs.

However, Sedaka’s career wasn’t without challenges. As the music industry evolved, especially with the rise of The Beatles in the 1960s, Sedaka struggled to maintain his popularity. He eventually moved his family to London, where his career regained momentum, thanks to a collaboration with Elton John. The album Sedaka’s Back (1974) marked a major comeback, solidifying his legacy as a talented and versatile artist.

Throughout his career, Sedaka has shown remarkable resilience. Despite financial troubles early in his life, including losing much of his earnings to his mother and her lover, Sedaka rebuilt his career with the help of his wife, who became his manager. His dedication to his family remained strong, and today, Sedaka is a proud grandfather.

Sedaka’s legacy goes beyond just his music. He is an example of how talent, perseverance, and love can create a lasting impact on the world. His timeless songs continue to bring joy to audiences worldwide, proving that while breaking up may be hard to do, his influence in the world of music is here to stay.