Billy Steinberg, songwriter behind Madonna’s ‘Like a Virgin’ and other 80s hits, dies at 75

Billy Steinberg, the Grammy-winning American songwriter behind some of the most iconic hits of the 1980s and 1990s, including Madonna’s ‘Like a Virgin,’ has died at the age of 75. Known for his collaboration with Tom Kelly, Steinberg co-wrote chart-toppers such as Cyndi Lauper’s ‘True Colors,’ Whitney Houston’s ‘So Emotional,’ The Bangles’ ‘Eternal Flame,’ and the Pretenders’ ‘I’ll Stand By You.’ Steinberg’s lyrics often drew on deeply personal experiences, transforming them into songs that resonated with millions. ‘Like a Virgin,’ inspired by a difficult past relationship, became Madonna’s first US number one single in 1984 despite initial skepticism from record companies and the singer herself. Produced by Nile Rodgers, the song spent six weeks atop the charts and became a defining moment in Madonna’s career, with its provocative lyrics and memorable MTV performance cementing her pop icon status. Beyond Madonna, Steinberg and Kelly’s songwriting continued to dominate the charts, creating hits for artists like Pat Benatar, Tina Turner, Roy Orbison, and Demi Lovato. Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2011, Steinberg was celebrated as a visionary lyricist whose work left a lasting impact on popular music. He passed away in Los Angeles following a battle with cancer and is survived by his wife, two sons, and two stepchildren.