Remembering Melanie: Iconic Singer of “Brand New Key” and Woodstock Performer Passes Away at 76

Melanie: In a somber announcement, the children of Melanie Safka, popularly known as Melanie, shared the news of their mother’s passing on January 23, 2024. The legendary singer, best known for hits like “Brand New Key” and “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain),” succumbed to an undisclosed illness at the age of 76, leaving a void in the world of music.

Melanie’s children—Lelilah, Jeordie, and Beau Jarred—shared their grief and appreciation for the outpouring of affection from fans in a heartfelt Facebook post. They described Melanie as one of the most talented, strong, and passionate women of her era, whose words and melodies resonated with the hearts of many.

The singer, born on February 3, 1947, in Astoria, New York, embarked on her musical journey after studying at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. In 1967, she crossed paths with her future manager, producer, and husband, Peter Schekeryk, setting the stage for a remarkable career.

Signing with Columbia Records, Melanie released early singles like “Beautiful People” and “Garden in the City.” However, it was her move to Buddah Records in 1968 that marked a significant turning point. The following year, at the age of 22, Melanie became part of the historic Woodstock lineup, sharing the stage with iconic artists such as Joan Baez, Jimi Hendrix, and the Grateful Dead.

Reflecting on her Woodstock experience in a 2019 interview with the Associated Press, Melanie spoke of the initial terror she felt before taking the stage. Despite the anxiety, her performance became a memorable part of the historic event.

In 1971, Melanie earned the title of Billboard’s biggest-selling female artist in the U.S., propelled by hits like “Lay Down” and a cover of the Rolling Stones’ “Ruby Tuesday.” The singer went on to form her own record label, Neighborhood Records, and achieved chart-topping success with the single “Brand New Key.”

Before her passing, Melanie was actively engaged in her music career, working on her 32nd album, a tribute project tentatively titled “Second Hand Smoke.” The album was set to feature covers of songs by artists like Morrissey, Nine Inch Nails, and Radiohead. Additionally, she collaborated with the Cleopatra label to reissue her post-1971 albums, with her 1984 live album, “One Night Only,” being the first in line for release.

As the world mourns the loss of a musical pioneer, Melanie’s legacy lives on through her timeless contributions to the industry. Her children have taken on the responsibility of overseeing the posthumous releases, ensuring that her music continues to captivate audiences for generations to come.

In honor of Melanie, her children have invited fans to light a candle at 10 p.m. CT on Wednesday evening—a symbolic gesture to celebrate the enduring light of her influence on music and the lives she touched throughout her illustrious career.

Melanie:

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