Legendary singer-songwriter dies at 86 | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload ourSocial PartnerWe are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleKevin E G PerrySaturday 28 February 2026 02:10 GMTNeil Sedaka, singer-songwriter behind 'Breaking Up Is Hard to Do,' dies at 86Legendary singer-songwriter Neil Sedaka has died at the age of 86, reportedly after being rushed to the hospital in Los Angeles.The cause of death for the New York-born musician, known for hits like “(Is This the Way to) Amarillo” and “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do,” has not yet been announced.His family released a statement expressing their devastation, describing him as a “true rock and roll legend” and an “incredible human being.”Sedaka began his career as a child prodigy on piano, earning a scholarship to the Juilliard School, and later found success as a songwriter at the Brill Building.He is survived by his wife, Leba Strassberg, and their two children, Marc and Dara Sedaka, leaving behind a legacy of influential pop songs.In fullNeil Sedaka death: Legendary singer-songwriter behind ‘(Is This the Way to) Amarillo’ was 86Thank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in