Brand New Key singer Melanie Safka, dead at 76
Melanie, who scored hits with “Brand New Key” and “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)” and performed at Woodstock in 1969, has died, her children Lelilah, Jeordie and Beau Jarred announced. She was 76.
Melanie Safka died on Tuesday, her record label Cleopatra also confirmed.
“This is the hardest post for us to write, and there are so many things we want to say, first, and there’s no easy way except to say it… Mom passed, peacefully, out of this world and into the next on January 23rd, 2024,” her children shared in a Facebook announcement.
“We are heartbroken, but want to thank each and every one of you for the affection you have for our Mother, and to tell you that she loved all of you so much!” the message continued. “She was one of the most talented, strong and passionate women of the era and every word she wrote, every note she sang reflected that.”
“Our world is much dimmer, the colors of a dreary, rainy Tennessee pale with her absence today, but we know that she is still here, smiling down on all of us, on all of you, from the stars,” their statement continued.
Family is planning celebration of life event
“We are planning a Celebration of Life for Mom and it will be open to all of you who want to come and celebrate her,” the statement said. “The details will be announced as soon as they are in place. We look forward to seeing you there.”
“At this time please allow us, her family, privacy as we grieve for her, remember her, and figure out how to navigate this crazy world without her. Thank you all for your love – you meant so very much to her.”
No information on the cause of death was immediately given, but Cleopatra mentioned an “illness” in their statement.
Melanie’s biggest hit “Brand New Key” became a singing show staple
Melanie released her biggest hit, “Brand New Key” in October 1071 and eventually reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Many hopefuls on TV singing competitions have performed the song over the years, including American Idol 2018 winner, Maddie Poppe. The singer songwriter performed it during the Top 24 elimination round.
