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What Happened to Lou Christie? Lightnin' Strikes Singer Passes Away
Lou Christie, the falsetto-voiced pop icon best known for his 1966 chart-topper 'Lightnin' Strikes,' died at 82; his family confirmed the news earlier today. A standout figure in 1960s pop music, Christie became known for his soaring falsetto and unique style. He left a lasting mark with a string of Billboard hits that defined his career.
Here's what we know so far about Lou Christie's death.
Lou Christie, the Pittsburgh-born singer-songwriter, has died at the age of 82.
He was known for his signature falsetto and a string of chart-topping hits in the 1960s. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Christie passed away Wednesday at his home in Pittsburgh following a short illness, as confirmed by his wife, Francesca.
Lou Christie was born Lugee Alfredo Giovanni Sacco in Glenwillard, Pennsylvania, on February 19, 1943. He gained fame with Billboard Hot 100 hits, including 'Lightnin' Strikes,' which reached No. 1 in February 1966. MGM Records released the song in December 1965, with Charles Calello producing it and The Delicates providing backing vocals.
Christie's musical career began in 1963 with 'The Gypsy Cried' and 'Two Faces Have I,' both co-written with longtime collaborator Twyla Herbert. He continued to climb the charts with 'I'm Gonna Make You Mine' in 1969 and a 1974 rendition of 'Beyond the Blue Horizon.' His other singles included 'Outside the Gates of Heaven,' 'Big Time,' 'Are You Getting Any Sunshine?' and 'She Sold Me Magic.'
In March 1966, Christie released 'Rhapsody in the Rain,' which peaked at No. 16 but was banned by several radio stations due to suggestive lyrics. A revised version later received broader airplay. 'We were makin' out in the rain/ And in this car, our love went much too far' was changed to 'We fell in love in the rain/ And you and I were feelin' no pain.'
Christie toured with Dick Clark's Caravan of Stars and recorded his final album in 2004. He later performed alongside Frankie Avalon and Fabian as part of Dick Fox's Golden Boys. His Instagram account shared, 'He was cherished… His absence leaves a profound void.'
His wife, Francesca, and their daughter, Bianca, survived him, while his son, Christopher, died in 2014.
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