‘American Bandstand’ welcomed Neil Sedaka to sing his hit ‘Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen.’ Dick Clark introduces Neil, saying, ‘You talk about people with a long stream of hits. This man has more of it to share.’
Dick tells the audience, ‘Give a hand for Neil Sedaka!’ Neil comes out from behind a glittery curtain. He is clapping and swaying as he sings with energy and enthusiasm.
He is wearing a suit and has palm leaves behind him as his background. The crowd is clapping along with him as he smiles really big during the tune. He nods his head and dances throughout the whole performance.
He sings the lyrics, ‘Tonight’s the night I’ve waited for because you’re not a baby anymore. You’ve turned into the prettiest girl I’ve ever seen. Happy birthday, sweet sixteen.’ The song reached number 6 on the Billboard chart.
The song was released in 1961, and the lyrics were composed by Howard Greenfield. Greenfield wrote the song after Sedaka’s comment regarding their success up to that time. Neil told Howard, ‘You could write a birthday song, and it’d be a hit.’
Neil Sedaka’s career began in 1957, and he has sold millions of records since then. He has written or co-written over 500 songs for himself and others. His other hits include ‘Oh! Carol’ and ‘Calendar Girl. He also scored success with ‘Breaking Up is Hard to Do.’
Neil’s performance on ‘American Bandstand’ shows his talent as a singer and songwriter. Even a birthday song became a hit with Neil behind it! This classic performance and tune will forever be associated with sweet sixteen.
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