Wrote iconic pop songs of the 1960s, including "Breaking Up Is Hard to Do" and "Calendar Girl", with a distinctive style that blended catchy melodies and witty lyrics.
Howard Greenfield was a renowned American lyricist and songwriter, best known for his successful collaborations with iconic artists of the 1960s, churning out an impressive string of chart-topping hits that still resonate with music enthusiasts today. His partnership with Neil Sedaka, in particular, yielded an incredible four number-one singles on the US Billboard charts, cementing his status as a master of his craft.
Born on March 15, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York City, Greenfield's affinity for music became apparent at a young age. He formed a songwriting partnership with Neil Sedaka, a friend and fellow Brooklynite, while still in his teens. This budding collaboration would go on to produce some of the most iconic songs of the 1960s.
Greenfield's songwriting prowess was unmatched, with a knack for crafting infectious melodies and lyrics that spoke directly to the hearts of the youth. Some of his most notable collaborations include:
These hits, along with numerous other top 10 singles, solidified Greenfield's reputation as a master songwriter of his era.
In addition to his chart-topping hits, Greenfield also made his mark on television, penning theme songs for popular 1960s shows such as:
He also worked with other notable artists, including the Everly Brothers, Jimmy Clanton, and the Shirelles, further expanding his musical reach.
In the early 1970s, Greenfield and Sedaka's song "Is This the Way to Amarillo" reached number one on the UK charts, featuring an all-star celebrity lineup in the music video. The song's proceeds went to charity, and it became the UK's best-selling record of the millennium at the time.
Howard Greenfield passed away on March 4, 1986, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable songs that continue to inspire new generations of musicians and music lovers alike.
In his personal life, Greenfield was educated at Abraham Lincoln High School in Brooklyn. His early life and career were marked by a strong sense of community and collaboration, which ultimately paved the way for his remarkable success in the music industry.
Greenfield's contributions to popular music have had a lasting impact on modern society. His songs, often centered around themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, continue to resonate with audiences today, transcending generations and genres.
His legacy serves as a testament to the power of music to bring people together, evoke emotions, and create a sense of community – a true reflection of the enduring spirit of the 1960s.
87 Years Old
A legendary singer-songwriter and pianist who wrote and performed iconic hits like "Oh! Carol" and "Calendar Girl", known for his catchy pop tunes and nostalgic charm.
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87 Years Old
A prolific songwriter behind numerous 1960s hits, crafting lyrics that captured the essence of youth culture and social change, with a legacy still resonating in modern music.
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Born in 1921
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