Neil Sedaka, the singer-songwriter behind late ’50’s and early ‘60s hits “Calendar Girl,” “Oh! Carol,”; and “Breaking Up is Hard To Do”, died on Friday (Feb. 28). He was 86.

His passing came only a day after reports circulating in the US indicated that he had been discharged from the hospital.

“Our family is devastated by the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Neil Sedaka,” said a statement issued by the musician whose songs and compositions became hits in many countries, including the Philippines.

The family added: “A true rock and roll legend, an inspiration to millions, but most importantly, at least to those of us who were lucky to know him, an incredible human being who will be deeply missed.”

Sedaka had a huge following in the Philippines that he decided to perform at the Araneta Coliseum at the peak of his popularity on May 4, 1960.

He brought along the Shepherd Sisters, Hilltoppers and Les Specers as backup. to the delight of the crowd, he also sang the Filippino folksong “Magtanimm ay Di Biro.

In 2020, Neil again wowed his Filipino fans on his second concert at the Bid Dome.

He registered the highest peak of his popularity in the late’50’s and early ‘60s when he teamed up with lyricist and boyhood friend Howard Greenfield to introduce to the rock and roll fans his liks “Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen”, "Calendar Girl" and “Oh! Carol,” which he dedicated for his high school girlfriend.

After years of hibernation, Sedaka rose anew to prominence with smash hits “Laughter in the Rain” and “Bad Blood”.

Chart-topper in 1975, his “Love Will Keep Us Together” was covered by Captain and Tenille.