– Melanie, Pioneering Folk Singer Who Dazzled at Woodstock, Dies at
– Melanie, Folk Singer Who Dazzled at Woodstock, Passes Away at 76.

Melanie, Iconic Woodstock Performer and Hit Singer, Passes Away at 76

Background and Early Career

Melanie, the renowned singer-songwriter known for her zephyr-like voice and iconic performances, has sadly passed away at the age of 76. Born as Melanie Satka in 1947, she rose to fame as one of the few solo female performers at the legendary Woodstock musical festival in 1969. Prior to her Woodstock appearance, Melanie had already established herself as a talented artist through her performances in Greenwich Village’s nightclubs and coffeehouses.

Woodstock and Chart-Topping Success

At Woodstock, Melanie’s mesmerizing performance captivated the audience, and she emerged from the stage as a celebrity. Inspired by this experience, she went on to release her first pop hit, “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain),” in 1970. The song reached the No. 6 spot on the Hot 100 chart that year and became synonymous with her concerts, as fans would light candles in the audience. Melanie’s connection with her fans through this song led to some venues banning her shows due to fire safety concerns.

However, it was her 1971 hit “Brand New Key” that truly solidified Melanie’s reputation. The catchy tune, released under Neighborhood Records, became a global sensation, selling over three million copies worldwide and reaching the top spot on the Hot 100 chart. Despite the song’s lighthearted nature, Melanie often joked about how it became a “bane” in her career, as fans interpreted the lyrics in various ways.

Award-Winning Career and Musical Contributions

Melanie’s musical success continued with hits like “Peace Will Come” (1970), “What Have They Done to My Song Ma” (1970), her cover of the Rolling Stones’ “Ruby Tuesday” (1970), and “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” (1973). In recognition of her talent, she received the top female vocalist award from Billboard in 1972 and became an official spokesperson for UNICEF.

Throughout her career, Melanie released more than two dozen albums, showcasing her versatility as an artist. In the 1980s, she ventured into musical theater, composing the music and lyrics for the musical “Ace of Diamonds,” based on Annie Oakley. Additionally, she was honored with an Emmy Award in 1989 for composing the theme song for the television adaptation of “Beauty and the Beast.”

A Lasting Legacy

Tragically, Melanie’s husband of four decades, Peter Schekeryk, passed away in 2010. Despite this loss, Melanie remained dedicated to her music and had recently started recording cover songs for a new album titled “Second Hand Smoke.” The album was set to feature her unique renditions of songs by Nine Inch Nails, Radiohead, and the Moody Blues. As of now, it is uncertain whether the album will be released posthumously.

A Fond Farewell

Melanie’s family, including her children Leilah, Jeordie, and Beau Jarred, announced her peaceful passing on Facebook. They described Melanie as an incredibly talented and passionate woman, whose music reflected her strength and spirit. While her absence leaves a void in the world, her family believes that Melanie’s presence will continue to shine down upon her loved ones and fans.

In honor of Melanie’s memory, her children have requested that friends, fans, and well-wishers light a candle on Wednesday night. They encourage everyone to raise their candles high, illuminating the darkness and connecting in remembrance of the extraordinary woman who touched the lives of so many as a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.