The legendary singer died of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, while kidney failure also contributed
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NEED TO KNOW
- Neil Sedaka died suddenly on Feb, 27
- The singer-songwriter died of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, while kidney failure also contributed, his death certificate confirms
- Sedaka was 86
Two weeks after the "sudden passing" of Neil Sedaka, the singer and songwriter whose career spanned more than six decades, the cause of death has been confirmed.
Sedaka died of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, with kidney failure listed as a contributing factor, according to a death certificate obtained by the New York Post. The American Heart Association describes the condition as the leading cause of death worldwide, resulting from the accumulation of fats, cholesterol and plaque in the arteries.
He was 86. Sedaka was taken to the hospital on the morning of Feb. 27 and died later that day.
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In a statement shared with PEOPLE following his death, Sedaka’s family remembered him as both an artist and a loved one.
"Our family is devastated by the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Neil Sedaka," they wrote. "A true rock and roll legend, an inspiration to millions, but most importantly, at least to those of us who were lucky enough to know him, an incredible human being who will be deeply missed."
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Born in Brooklyn in 1939 and raised in Brighton Beach, Sedaka showed musical promise early in life. A teacher recognized his aptitude and urged his parents to buy him a piano, setting him on a path that would lead to both commercial success and enduring influence.
He emerged as a prominent figure in American pop music in the late 1950s and early 1960s, recording hits including “Oh! Carol,” “Calendar Girl” and “Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen.” He later returned to the charts in the 1970s with songs such as “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” and “Laughter in the Rain.”
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In addition to his own recordings, Sedaka was a prolific songwriter, composing for other performers, including Connie Francis and Jimmy Clanton. His work helped define the Brill Building era of pop songwriting.
Sedaka is survived by his wife Leba and children Dara and Marc.
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