Billy Steinberg death was confirmed on Monday, February 16, 2026, at the age of 75. The Grammy-winning American songwriter, renowned for co-writing Madonna’s iconic hit, Like a Virgin, passed away after a battle with cancer. His death marks the loss of one of pop music’s most influential songwriters.
According to his lawyer, Laurie Soriano, Steinberg’s health declined after a long struggle with cancer. His family also released a statement, saying, “Billy Steinberg’s life was a testament to the enduring power of a well-written song and to the idea that honesty, when set to music, can outlive us all.”
Steinberg grew up in Palm Springs, California, and rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s as a songwriter behind some of the biggest pop hits of the era. His music shaped the careers of global stars including Whitney Houston, Cyndi Lauper, and Celine Dion.
Steinberg co-wrote five Billboard Hot 100 number one songs, including Like a Virgin, created with collaborator Tom Kelly. His work was not only commercially successful but also critically acclaimed. In 1997, he won a Grammy linked to Celine Dion’s Falling Into You, and in 2011, he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy in the music industry.
Steinberg is survived by his wife, Trina, two sons, and two stepchildren. Throughout his career, he maintained a reputation for honesty, creativity, and dedication to his craft. His songs remain a defining feature of 1980s and 1990s pop culture, influencing generations of artists and songwriters.
From Like a Virgin to other timeless hits, Steinberg’s songwriting demonstrated the ability to capture emotion and tell stories through music. His death is mourned not only by his family but also by fans and the music community worldwide, who continue to celebrate his remarkable contributions.
