BREAKING: Neil Sedaka, singer behind ‘Breaking Up Is Hard To Do,’ dead at 86

February 27, 2026

From the Daily Mail: Famed 1960s and 1970s singer Neil Sedaka has died at age 86 after he was rushed to the hospital.

Sedaka’s family confirmed the ‘rock and roll legend’ had passed in a statement obtained by The Daily Mail.

‘Our family is devastated by the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Neil Sedaka,’ they said. ‘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.’

TMZ earlier reported that Sedaka was taken to the hospital in an ambulance after he woke up Friday morning feeling unwell.

Sedaka is best known for the 1960s tune “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do.” He started his singing career in the 1950s with the band The Tokens.

Other songs he performed included “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do,” “Bad Blood,” “Laughter in the Rain,” “Calendar Girl,” and “Oh! Carol.”

He also wrote the Captain and Tennille’s hit song, “Love Will Keep Us Together.”

His family announced his death in a statement on his X page.

pic.twitter.com/JvADtmhsto

— Neil Sedaka (@neilsedaka) February 27, 2026

Sedaka’s last post on X was Tuesday, February 24. He was playing the piano and singing a new song which he said would be released on April 10.

“Good Times, Good Music, and Good Friends” – that’s always been my philosophy! This track is featured on Steppin’ Out, available April 10th. I can’t wait to share it with you again.https://t.co/LmAHpOMhWr pic.twitter.com/EGa6CrtW9g

— Neil Sedaka (@neilsedaka) February 24, 2026

Exactly one week ago, on Friday, February 20, Sedaka uploaded a video on his YouTube channel, of himself performing “Love Will Keep Us Together” on ‘Pebble Mill’ on October 28, 1992.

Rest in peace, Neil Sedaka.