Billy Steinberg, the renowned Grammy-winning songwriter and co-author of iconic pop songs including Madonna's 'Like a Virgin' and Cyndi Lauper's 'True Colors', has died in Los Angeles at the age of 75, just ten days before his 76th birthday. His passing has been confirmed by his attorney, highlighting the substantial loss to the music industry. Steinberg's influence stretched across multiple decades, particularly through the 1980s when his powerful and emotional ballads captivated audiences worldwide.

In addition to the aforementioned hits, Steinberg was responsible for many other chart-topping songs, including 'Eternal Flame' by The Bangles and 'So Emotional' by Whitney Houston. His ability to write poignant and vulnerable lyrics resonated largely with listeners and his works frequently climbed to the top of Billboard's Hot 100 chart. Throughout his impressive career, Steinberg collaborated primarily with fellow songwriter Tom Kelly, crafting numerous anthems that defined a generation of music.

With a portfolio that also features hits like 'I'll Stand by You' by The Pretenders and 'I Touch Myself' by The Divinyls, Steinberg's works have left an indelible mark on pop culture. From the 1980s onward, his contributions have garnered him not just commercial success but also acclaim from peers and fans alike. The music community mourns the loss of a brilliant songwriter who played a crucial role in shaping the soundtracks of many lives.