Iconic songwriter Billy Steinberg, who penned chart-topping hits like “True Colors” and “Like a Virgin” with collaborator Tom Kelly, passed away on February 16 at the age of 75. The legendary songwriter’s death has left the music industry and fans devastated, as they mourn the loss of a talented and influential figure.
Steinberg, born on February 26, 1948, in Fresno, California, had a deep love for music from a young age. He began playing the guitar at the age of nine and was writing his own songs by the time he was 14. After college, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in music and soon found himself collaborating with fellow songwriter Tom Kelly.
Together, Steinberg and Kelly became one of the most successful songwriting duos in the music industry. Their unique and powerful songwriting style caught the attention of many artists, and they quickly became in-demand collaborators. With their undeniable talent and ability to craft hit songs, they were unstoppable.
In 1986, Steinberg and Kelly co-wrote “True Colors” for singer Cyndi Lauper, which became an instant hit and a staple in pop music. The uplifting and inspiring lyrics of the song resonated with people all over the world, making it a timeless classic. “True Colors” has been covered by numerous artists and continues to be a symbol of self-acceptance and inner strength.
The success of “True Colors” was just the beginning for Steinberg and Kelly. They went on to write several other iconic songs, including Madonna’s “Like a Virgin,” The Bangles’ “Eternal Flame,” and Heart’s “Alone.” These songs became global hits and solidified Steinberg and Kelly’s status as hitmakers.
In addition to writing for other artists, Steinberg also pursued a career as a solo artist. He released his debut album “Bad Love” in 1999, which featured several of his own songs, including “Naked Eyes” and “Crush.” The album received critical acclaim and further showcased Steinberg’s songwriting abilities.
Throughout his successful career, Steinberg received multiple accolades for his songwriting, including Grammy nominations, and was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2011. His impact on the music industry cannot be underestimated, and his songs will continue to inspire and touch the hearts of people for generations to come.
Steinberg’s death has left a void in the music industry, but his legacy will live on through his timeless songs. Many artists, including Kelly Clarkson and Katy Perry, have paid tribute to Steinberg and expressed their gratitude for his contributions to music.
“True Colors” and other songs written by Steinberg and Kelly have become anthems of hope and empowerment, reminding us to embrace our authentic selves and find strength in our vulnerabilities. Their music has stood the test of time and continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.
As we mourn the loss of Billy Steinberg, let us also celebrate his life and the incredible impact he has had on the music industry. He will always be remembered as a talented songwriter, an inspiration to many, and a true legend whose music will continue to touch the hearts of people around the world. Rest in peace, Billy Steinberg. Your true colors will shine on forever.
