Philly songwriter and producer Danny Sembello passes away at 52
This past weekend, Philadelphia singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Danny Sembello passed away at age 52. According to a report, his body was found in the Schuykill River on August 15th.
The brother of Michael Sembello (who sang the 80s hit song “Maniac”), Danny Sembello had his own share of accomplishments. He wrote songs for countless artists, including “Neutron Dance” by the Pointer Sisters and “Stir It Up” by Patti LaBelle. Chaka Khan, Monica, Jeffrey Osborne, and Irene Cara were among some of the other artists who performed songs written by Sembello.
He won a Grammy for his contribution to the Beverly Hills Cop movie soundtrack.
An exceptional artist who helped kickstart the careers of some of music’s most memorable soul singers, great memories of Sembello will be held in the hearts of his family, friends, and the city of Philadelphia – and beyond.
When Stevie Wonder performed at Dilworth Park on Monday, he sent out a dedication to Sembello, saying “He’s a great songwriter and a great human being.”
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