American singer-songwriter Neil Sedaka, best known for timeless hits like Breaking Up Is Hard To Do, Oh! Carol, Calendar Girl, Laughter in the Rain, and Bad Blood, has died at the age of 86.

His family confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement, describing him as a “true rock and roll legend” and an “incredible human being who will be deeply missed.”

A Brooklyn native and Juilliard-trained pianist, Sedaka rose to fame in the late 1950s and early 1960s with a string of chart-topping pop songs that defined a generation.

As a founding member of the doo-wop group The Tokens, he helped shape early rock and roll before launching a highly successful solo career.

Throughout his six-decade music journey, Sedaka earned five Grammy nominations and built a reputation as both a gifted performer and a prolific songwriter.

He penned hits not only for himself but for other stars, including Stupid Cupid, recorded by Connie Francis in 1958.

Although his popularity dipped during the British Invasion era, Sedaka made a powerful comeback in the 1970s.

He wrote Love Will Keep Us Together, a major hit for Captain & Tennille, and recorded albums under the label of music icon Elton John.

Beyond pop success, Sedaka embraced classical music, performing piano concertos and sharing his love for serious compositions.

Yet he often said performing his own lyrics and melodies brought him the greatest fulfillment.

Neil Sedaka’s death marks the end of an era in American pop music history.

His songs, marked by catchy melodies and heartfelt storytelling, continue to inspire artists and entertain millions worldwide.