Along with my Beatles and Beach Boys records were two records that my grandfather loved and played constantly, The Drifters' Golden Hits and Neil Sedaka's Greatest Hits. Dinner on a summer Sunday would be a din of screaming Italians, Phil Rizzuto calling the Yankees game on the living room television, and my grandfather's stereo turned up to eleven, years before Spinal Tap, blasting "Oh Carol" and "Run Samson Run" from his den.
The man could write a hit, that's for sure.
Neil was still very active on social media. Did not expect this. More good news.
I remember about 5 years ago I went through his recorded output and I was stupefied by how many good songs he wrote and/or performed.
ReplyDeleteNeil's first child was born on the same day at the same hospital as me. My father met him in the waiting room. Dad was about 5 years older than Neil and was not very familiar with his music.
ReplyDeleteFun story Kevin! Great memories, Sal. He had a terrific run and all the love and respect. You might even say he did it.... Never mind.
ReplyDeleteLaughter In The Rain was a key song of my childhood. Sorry to see him go.
ReplyDeleteGreat story, Kevin!
This news really hurt last night. So pivotal in such a pivotal time of popular music. RIP.
ReplyDeleteHe wrote and recorded so many great pop songs. RIP.
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