We’re saddened by the loss of Melanie, the beloved singer who left an indelible mark with her iconic performance at Woodstock in 1969 and chart-topping hits like “Brand New Key” and “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)” during the early ’70s.
Melanie, (Melanie Safka), peacefully passed away at the age of 76, a fact confirmed by her publicity firm, Glass Onyon PR.
Melanie had been working diligently on her 32nd album, “Second Hand Smoke,” for the Cleopatra label just a few weeks ago, showcasing her unwavering dedication to her craft. The cause of her passing remains undisclosed.
Her three children, Leilah, Jeordie, and Beau Jarred, have taken to Facebook to share their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from fans. They’ve provided a glimpse into the incredible woman that Melanie was – immensely talented, strong-willed, and filled with an unbridled passion. Her words and melodies resonated deeply with all who listened. As we navigate a world dimmed by her absence, her memory will continue to shine brightly, watching over us from the stars above.
In honour of Melanie, her children asked that people come together to light candles yesterday evening (24/01/24), raising them high as a symbol of collective remembrance and appreciation for the extraordinary woman who held roles as a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to countless individuals.
Melanie’s music touched hearts with hits like “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)” and “Brand New Key,” songs that found their way into the very fabric of our lives. She faced challenges as a female artist in a male-dominated folk-rock era, yet her talent remained undeniable.
Born in Astoria, New York, on Feb. 3, 1947, Melanie Safka’s journey led her from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts to the folk clubs of Greenwich Village, where her destiny as a musician unfolded.
Her performance at the legendary Woodstock Festival in 1969, even before she achieved widespread recognition on the radio, was a pivotal moment in her life. She shared her vivid recollections of that experience and the ethereal connection with her audience, symbolized by the flickering candles in the rain, which inspired her breakthrough hit, “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain).” This song became an emblem of her concerts, even leading to show bans due to fire safety concerns.
Melanie’s husband, Peter Schekeryk, her partner in both music and life, passed away in 2010. In recent years, she had the privilege of collaborating musically with her son Beau Jarred and daughters Leilah and Jeordie, deepening the bonds of their family through their shared passion for music.
Though Melanie may not have always received the recognition she deserved, younger artists like Miley Cyrus and Jarvis Cocker recognized her talent and legacy. They joined her in celebrating her timeless music and the enduring impact she had on the world of sound.
The show is all done, and at 1st 3, we will mourn Melanie’s physical absence but take solace in the enduring legacy she leaves behind. Her music will forever be a source of comfort, inspiration, and joy.
Photo 
Maddy Miller