Billy Steinberg, the songwriter behind some of pop music’s most enduring anthems – including Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” and Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors” – died on Monday, , in Los Angeles. He was 75.
Steinberg’s passing was confirmed by his lawyer, as reported by Rolling Stone and Variety. While a specific cause of death was not initially disclosed, reports indicate he had been battling cancer. His family released a statement calling him a “visionary lyricist, devoted husband, loving father, and one of the most influential songwriters of his era,” noting that his lyrics “often began as deeply personal reflections, transformed into anthems in which millions found themselves.”
Born William Steinberg on , in Fresno, California, Steinberg’s journey to becoming a hitmaker began in Palm Springs, where he grew up. He pursued studies in literature at Bard College in upstate New York, a foundation that would later inform his evocative and emotionally resonant songwriting.
Before achieving widespread success as a songwriter, Steinberg fronted a New Wave band called Billy Thermal in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Though the band didn’t release a full album, his song “How Do I Make You” caught the attention of Linda Ronstadt, who recorded a top 10 hit version in 1980. This early success provided a crucial springboard for his career.
The true turning point came in 1981 when Steinberg began a prolific collaboration with musician Tom Kelly. The partnership proved remarkably fruitful, with Steinberg focusing on lyrics and Kelly composing the music. Together, they penned a string of chart-topping hits that defined the sound of the 1980s, and 90s.
Their breakthrough arrived in 1984 with “Like a Virgin,” co-written for Madonna. The song became a cultural phenomenon, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying both Madonna’s and Steinberg’s place in pop music history. As the BBC noted, the song was born from Steinberg’s own personal experiences, reflecting a newfound freedom after a difficult relationship. He described the song as telling the story of “making it through the wilderness” and finding elation in a new connection.
The success of “Like a Virgin” was just the beginning. Steinberg and Kelly continued their hit-making streak with a remarkable run of number one singles, including Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors,” Whitney Houston’s “So Emotional,” The Bangles’ “Eternal Flame,” and Heart’s “Alone.” These songs resonated deeply with audiences, becoming staples of radio and popular culture.
Even after Kelly retired from songwriting in the 1990s, Steinberg continued to thrive, writing for established artists like Celine Dion and Linda Ronstadt, and adapting to a new generation of pop stars, including Demi Lovato, JoJo, and Nicole Scherzinger. His ability to craft emotionally compelling lyrics ensured his continued relevance in a rapidly evolving music landscape.
Steinberg’s impact extends beyond the commercial success of his songs. “True Colors,” in particular, has become an anthem of acceptance and self-expression, covered by numerous artists and used in countless contexts. His work consistently demonstrated a knack for tapping into universal emotions and experiences, creating songs that transcended genre and generation.
The legacy of Billy Steinberg is one of enduring artistry and profound influence. He is survived by his wife, Trina; his sons, Ezra and Max; his sisters, Barbara and Mary; and his stepchildren, Raúl and Carolina. His songs, however, will continue to resonate with listeners for years to come, a testament to the power of honest songwriting and the enduring magic of a well-crafted melody.
As Rolling Stone highlighted, Steinberg’s lyrics often began as deeply personal reflections, ultimately transforming into anthems that connected with millions. His ability to distill complex emotions into universally relatable songs cemented his status as a true master of his craft.
