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Songwriting Legend Billy Steinberg Dies at 75
17 Feb
Summary
- Billy Steinberg, co-writer of 'Like a Virgin,' died Monday of cancer.
- He penned five Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 singles in the 1980s.
- Steinberg also wrote hits for Whitney Houston and The Bangles.
Hall of Fame songwriter Billy Steinberg, celebrated for his pivotal role in crafting some of the 1980s' biggest hits, passed away Monday from cancer at the age of 75. His attorney confirmed the news.
Steinberg, alongside his writing partner Tom Kelly, achieved remarkable success, penning five singles that topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart. These iconic tracks include Madonna's "Like a Virgin," Whitney Houston's "So Emotional," and The Bangles' "Eternal Flame." Their collaborative work also produced chart-toppers for Cyndi Lauper with "True Colors" and Heart's power ballad "Alone."
Beyond these major hits, Steinberg and Kelly were responsible for other memorable songs. These include the Divinyls' Top 5 hit "I Touch Myself" and The Pretenders' enduring ballad "I'll Stand by You." They also penned Cyndi Lauper's "I Drove All Night" and The Bangles' "In Your Room," further cementing their status as sought-after songwriters for numerous established artists.
