The cause of death of legendary singer-songwriter Neil Sedaka has been confirmed, two weeks after his sudden demise at the age of 86.
Reports state that his death certificate cited death from atherosclerotic heart disease, with kidney failure listed as a contributing factor. This condition causes a build-up of fat and cholesterol in the arteries and is a leading cause of death worldwide.
Sedaka was taken to hospital on the morning of 27 February, where he died later that day.
In a statement released at the time, his family said they were “devastated” by the loss, remembering him not only as a renowned artist but also as a devoted husband, father and grandfather.
Born in Brooklyn in 1939 and raised in Brighton Beach, Sedaka showed musical talent from an early age. A teacher encouraged his parents to support his abilities, leading to his training in music and ultimately a decade-long career.
In the late 1950s and early 1960s he rose to fame with hits such as Oh! Tune, calendar girl, And Happy Birthday, Sweet Sixteen. He found success again in the 1970s with songs such as Breaking up is hard to do And laughing in the rain.
Sedaka was also a songwriter who wrote for other artists and helped shape the Brill Building era of pop music.
He left behind his wife, Leba, and his children, Darius and Mark.
