Billy Steinberg, Hitmaker Behind Iconic 80s Anthems, Dies at 75
Billy Steinberg, the lyricist responsible for crafting some of the most enduring pop songs of the 1980s – including Madonna’s “Like a Virgin,” Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors,” and Heart’s “Alone” – passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026, at his home in Brentwood, California. He was 75 years vintage.
His lawyer, Laurie Soriano, confirmed his death, citing cancer as the cause.
The Power of the Melodramatic Ballad
Steinberg possessed a remarkable ability to capture the intensity of love, and longing. His lyrics often explored themes of vulnerability and emotional upheaval. “Like a Virgin,” co-written with Tom Kelly, vividly portrays a transformative experience, although “Alone” delves into the quiet desperation of unrequited affection.
A String of Number One Hits
“Like a Virgin” dominated the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks in late 1984 and early 1985. Steinberg and Kelly continued their success, achieving four additional No. 1 hits: “True Colors” by Cyndi Lauper, “Alone” by Heart, “So Emotional” by Whitney Houston, and “Eternal Flame” by the Bangles.
Beyond the 80s: Continued Success and Collaboration
Steinberg’s songwriting prowess extended beyond the 1980s. He penned or co-wrote hits such as The Pretenders’ “I’ll Stand by You,” the Divinyls’ “I Touch Myself,” and versions of “I Drove All Night” recorded by Cyndi Lauper and Roy Orbison.
Following Tom Kelly’s retirement from music in the 1990s, Steinberg collaborated with Rick Nowels and Marie-Claire D’Ubaldo, co-writing “Falling Into You” (covered by Celine Dion) and “One & One.” He also worked with Josh Alexander on songs like t.A.T.u.’s “All About Us,” JoJo’s “Too Little Too Late,” Katharine McPhee’s “Over It,” and Demi Lovato’s “Give Your Heart a Break.”
From Vineyards to Songwriting: A Unique Path
Born in Fresno, California, Steinberg’s early life took an unconventional turn when his family moved to Palm Springs, where his father owned a table grape business. He began writing songs while studying literature at Bard College, but left after experiencing severe anxiety. He then worked on his family’s vineyards, continuing to write lyrics during this time.
Early Bands and Breakthroughs
In the late 1970s, Steinberg formed the new wave band Billy Thermal, which was signed to Richard Perry’s Planet Records. Even though the band’s album remained unreleased, Linda Ronstadt and Pat Benatar recorded their songs, with Ronstadt’s “How Do I Make You” reaching No. 10 on the Hot 100 in 1980.
After Billy Thermal disbanded, Steinberg and Kelly formed i-Ten, releasing an album in 1983 that included an early version of “Alone.”
Awards and Recognition
Steinberg received a Grammy Award in 1997 for his contribution to Celine Dion’s “Falling Into You,” which won Album of the Year. He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2011.
He is survived by his wife, Trina, and his sons, Ezra and Max.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were some of Billy Steinberg’s biggest hits?
Some of his most famous songs include Madonna’s “Like a Virgin,” Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors,” Heart’s “Alone,” Whitney Houston’s “So Emotional,” and the Bangles’ “Eternal Flame.”
Who did Billy Steinberg frequently collaborate with?
He achieved his greatest success collaborating with Tom Kelly. Later in his career, he worked with Rick Nowels, Marie-Claire D’Ubaldo, and Josh Alexander.
What awards did Billy Steinberg receive?
He won a Grammy Award in 1997 for his work on Celine Dion’s “Falling Into You” and was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2011.
