Music Legend Billy Steinberg Passes Away at 75 Leaving Behind Iconic Hits

Billy Steinberg, the celebrated Hall of Fame songwriter whose lyrics helped shape the soundtrack of a generation, has died at the age of 75.

His passing at his Brentwood home on Monday, following a battle with cancer, comes just days before what would have been his 76th birthday on February 26.

Steinberg’s contributions to music were monumental, crafting timeless songs that continue to resonate with audiences decades after their release.

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Partnership With Tom Kelly Defined an Era of Pop Music

Steinberg’s career skyrocketed through his creative partnership with songwriter and producer Tom Kelly.

Together, they penned some of the biggest hits of the 1980s and 1990s, including Madonna’s iconic “Like A Virgin,” Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors,” and Whitney Houston’s “So Emotional.”

Their work earned both songwriters a well-deserved induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2011, cementing their legacy in the music industry.

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Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born in 1950 in Fresno, California, Steinberg spent his early years immersed in music before moving to Palm Springs. He began his professional journey with the band Billy Thermal, which was signed to Planet Records.

Songs like “How Do I Make You?” were later covered by Linda Ronstadt, while Pat Benatar featured “I’m Gonna Follow You” on her 1980 album Crimes of Passion.

These early successes laid the foundation for Steinberg’s future songwriting achievements.

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Creating Some of Pop’s Most Memorable Songs

The collaboration with Tom Kelly began in 1981, leading to the creation of “Like A Virgin,” released on Madonna’s 1984 album. Steinberg described the song’s origin as spontaneous: inspired by his personal experiences and written in a stream-of-consciousness style.

He explained in interviews that lyrics often flowed like poetry before transforming into songs, capturing raw emotion in a way few songwriters could.

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Hits Across Generations

Beyond “Like A Virgin,” Steinberg and Kelly wrote chart-topping hits for multiple artists.

These include the Bangles’ “Eternal Flame,” Heart’s “Alone,” Laura Branigan’s “Spirit Of Love,” and Tina Turner’s “Look Me In The Heart.” Steinberg’s adaptability extended into the 2000s, working with JoJo, Katharine McPhee, t.A.T.u., Ashley Tisdale, and Demi Lovato.

Cyndi Lauper reflected on his work, calling Steinberg a “great lyricist” whose songs captured emotional range, from subtle nuance to raw intensity.

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Legacy and Family Collaborations

Steinberg’s passion for music extended to his family. Last year, he and his son Ezra signed deals with Sony Music Publishing and launched Steinberg Music, continuing the songwriter’s legacy while mentoring the next generation.

Steinberg is survived by his wife, Trina, and sons Ezra and Max, who continue to honor his impact on music.

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What’s Next?

Fans and artists alike are likely to revisit Steinberg’s extensive catalog, celebrating the enduring influence of his songwriting.

Music historians may analyze his lyricism and collaborative methods, highlighting the ways he shaped pop and contemporary music.

Meanwhile, projects under Steinberg Music and the continued work of his son Ezra will ensure his creative vision carries on.

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Summary

Billy Steinberg, Hall of Fame songwriter behind hits like Madonna’s Like A Virgin and Cyndi Lauper’s True Colors, has died at 75 after a battle with cancer.

With a career spanning decades, Steinberg’s collaboration with Tom Kelly produced some of the most iconic songs of the 1980s and beyond, influencing artists from Whitney Houston to Demi Lovato.

Known for his stream-of-consciousness lyricism and deep emotional resonance, Steinberg leaves behind a powerful musical legacy, survived by his wife Trina and sons Ezra and Max, who continue to carry forward his passion through Steinberg Music.