![[2026] Start Here! A Summary of Recommended Songs by Neil Sedaka](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/qzliaVBQKDs/maxresdefault.webp)
[2026] Start Here! A Summary of Recommended Songs by Neil Sedaka
Neil Sedaka, who sadly passed away in February 2026.As one of America’s greatest singer-songwriters, his contributions in bringing countless hit songs to the world are immeasurable.Many people have probably heard his voice and melodies that colored the golden age of pop somewhere before, but don’t actually know the song titles or when they were released.
This article is perfect for those people.While there are many songs he wrote for other artists that became hits, this time we’ve focused solely on tracks performed by Sedaka himself.If you’re new to his music, please use this article as a starting point!
[2026] Start Here! A Curated List of Recommended Neil Sedaka Songs (1–10)
Breaking Up is Hard to DoNEW!Neil Sedaka
Isn’t it wonderful that heartbreak can be blown away with such a breezy rhythm? This track, memorable for its unique scat at the beginning and its sparkling piano, is one of Neil Sedaka’s signature numbers, released in June 1962.
The lyrics were written by his longtime partner Howard Greenfield, turning the sadness of a breakup into a pop masterpiece.
In fact, Sedaka himself re-recorded it as a slow ballad in 1975, and that version reached No.
8 on the U.S.
charts the following year, 1976—making it a rare global hit in two different arrangements.
A musical bearing the song’s title was also staged in 2005.
When you need a boost, go for the original; when you want to sink into the mood, choose the ballad version—pick whichever fits your feelings!
Oh! CarolNEW!Neil Sedaka
Oh! Carol,” a classic song that symbolizes the early career of Neil Sedaka, was released as a single in September 1959.
It’s known as a love song addressed to his former girlfriend, Carole King, who would later become a great songwriter.
Featuring a lively rhythm and a catchy melody, the spoken-word section in the middle of the track is especially striking, emphasizing the protagonist’s bittersweet feelings.
The song is included on albums such as “Neil Sedaka Sings Little Devil and His Other Hits,” and it enjoyed renewed chart success in the UK in the 1970s, remaining beloved over the years.
With its bright, rock ’n’ roll feel and infectious groove, it captures all the fun of the oldies, making it approachable even for those not well-versed in Western pop music.
One Way TicketNEW!Neil Sedaka
A masterpiece that shines in pop music history, it rides on the brisk clatter of a train to sing of a heartrending journey of farewell.
With a rhythmical yet wistful melody, it brilliantly captures the lonely state of mind of someone who can no longer return to their loved one.
Released by Neil Sedaka in September 1959 as the B-side to the classic “Oh! Carol,” this song became explosively popular in Japan under the title “Koi no Kataomoi Kippu” (“One Way Ticket to Love”), even surpassing the A-side in fame, and was covered by numerous singers.
It is also known for its 1979 cover by the disco group Eruption, which sparked a worldwide revival hit.
Packed with the charm of the oldies, its sound continues to be loved across generations.
It’s the perfect track for when you want to bask in a sense of nostalgia or are looking for a catchy melody that lingers in the heart.
Bad BloodNEW!Neil Sedaka
Neil Sedaka, a quintessential American singer-songwriter who made a dramatic comeback in the mid-1970s.
The track I’d recommend as a work where he embraced rock elements and broke new ground is “Bad Blood.” Its appeal lies in the sound where the groove created by pounding piano lines interlocks with his energetic vocals.
It’s also known for featuring his close friend Elton John on backing vocals.
The hook in the chorus, where their voices blend, is unforgettable after just one listen.
Released as a single in September 1975, it achieved overwhelming success, including three consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the U.S.
Billboard chart.
It’s also included on the U.S.
edition of the album The Hungry Years.
Perfect for when you want to lift your spirits or savor classic pop-rock.
Calendar GirlNEW!Neil Sedaka
It’s a masterpiece where the thrill of flipping through a calendar and the flutter of being in love come together perfectly! The idea of weaving seasonal events from January to December into the lyrics is brilliant, and Neil Sedaka’s buoyant piano, sweet vocals, and lively rhythm make it an exquisite pop number that sets your heart dancing.
Although released as a single in December 1960, it went on to reach No.
4 on the U.S.
charts the following year and has remained a beloved standard around the world.
In Japan, it’s familiar from TV commercials and program background music, and it’s also well known for covers by Kyu Sakamoto and Aimer.
With its retro, cute vibe, it’s perfect for livening up a birthday party or for a morning pick-me-up—so definitely give it a listen!
Happy Birthday, Sweet SixteenNEW!Neil Sedaka
It’s a timeless classic that continues to be loved around the world as a go-to song for someone’s birthday.
The lyrics, celebrating the special milestone of turning sixteen, depict how someone you’ve known since childhood suddenly looks grown-up, stirring the first feelings of love.
Its melody, packed with the bittersweet sparkle of youth, lifts the listener’s spirits.
Released as a single in November 1961, it climbed high on the U.S.
charts.
Since then, it has been included in numerous best-of compilations and cherished across generations.
It’s the perfect track for background music at a loved one’s birthday party or for moments when you want to bask in nostalgia.
Laughter in the RainNEW!Neil Sedaka
It’s a warmly textured mid-tempo number that turns rainy-day blues into moments of happiness.
The lyrics, which depict the joy of walking through the rain with a lover, blend exquisitely with the sophisticated piano melody, gently embracing the listener’s heart.
Released as a single by Neil Sedaka in 1974, it reached the top of the U.S.
charts in February 1975, marking a triumphant comeback and standing as a landmark work.
It’s also included on the album “Sedaka’s Back” and has been cherished for many years.
The roughly 20-second saxophone solo in the interlude is memorable as well, making it a pinnacle of adult contemporary music.
Perfect for relaxing with the sound of rain as your BGM or for spending a peaceful moment with someone special!