Neil Sedaka, who died aged 86, was a prolific songwriter and performer whose career spanned nearly seven decades, from the 1950s Brill Building era to a triumphant 1970s comeback. His catalogue of hits, often dismissed as lightweight pop, reveals a surprising depth and craft that influenced generations of musicians.
Sedaka began as a jobbing songwriter, penning hits for others. His early work for Connie Francis included the irresistible 'Stupid Cupid', which he initially thought too silly for the 'classy lady'. Another early composition, 'The Diary', was inspired by Francis's refusal to let him read her diary. His own hit 'Oh! Carol' was a tribute to his ex-girlfriend Carol Klein, who responded with 'Oh! Neil' under her new pen name Carole King.
The 1960s saw Sedaka produce enduring classics like 'Calendar Girl' and 'Breaking Up Is Hard to Do', but the arrival of the Beatles rendered his style passé. He struggled for the rest of the decade, though songs like 'We Had a Good Thing Goin'' demonstrated his ability to adapt, incorporating influences from the Beach Boys and the Beatles' 'Penny Lane'.
After a period without a US record deal, Sedaka engineered a remarkable comeback in the 1970s by pivoting to a singer-songwriter style, inspired by Carole King's success. His own version of 'Breaking Up Is Hard to Do' as a jazz-influenced ballad showcased his enduring melodic sophistication, and he continued to write and perform well into his later years, leaving a legacy of meticulously crafted pop songs.
From the underrated darkness of 'One Way Ticket (To the Blues)' to the wistful charm of 'Where the Boys Are', Sedaka's work transcended the novelty tag to become part of the Great American Songbook. His influence on Brian Wilson and others underscores his place as a true architect of 20th century pop.
