Chart-topping ‘60s pop singer dies at 82: ‘He will be greatly missed'
Christie died Wednesday, June 18, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania after a 'short illness' according to the singer's obituary. His death was announced by his family in an Instagram post.
'It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of our beloved brother, Lou Christie, who left us after a brief illness,' the post reads. 'He was cherished not only by his family and close friends, but also by countless fans whose lives he touched with his kindness and generosity, artistic and musical talent, humor and spirit. His absence leaves a profound void in all our hearts. He will be greatly missed, always remembered, and forever loved.'
An official cause of death has not been reported.
Known for his signature falsetto, Christie was born Lugee Alfredo Giovanni Sacco in Glenwillard, Pennsylvania, on Feb. 19, 1943, his AllMusic biography states. As a teenager, Christie studied music and singing at Moon Township High School before joining a group called the Classics.
After later adopting his stage name, Christie recorded a few songs for small labels from 1959 to 1962. Among these songs was the 1962 local hit 'The Gypsy Cried,' The track was eventually licensed for national release by the Roulette label, peaking at No. 24 on the pop charts in 1963.
Christie later moved to New York City and got a gig as a back-up singer. He wrote and recorded 'Two Faces Have I,' which reached the top ten of the pop charts. Christie released several more singles before his smash hit 'Lightnin' Strikes' would go straight to No. 1 in 1965. The singer followed up with the 1966 hit 'Rhapsody in the Rain,' and well as his last top ten entry, 'I'm Gonna Make You Mine,' in 1969.
Christie's commercial success dwindled by the 1970s. He released two albums that decade and, by the 1980s, was appearing on oldies package tours. Christie released one album in the 1990s ahead of his 'Greatest Hits Live at the Bottom Line' project in 2004. The 2010s saw two more albums from the late singer.
'Our family lost a legend today. Lou Christie (my father's cousin) was not only a great talent, but a remarkable man, a true friend, and an inspiration,' family member Jack Sacco wrote on Facebook. 'We are so grateful to have known you, Lou. Thank you for sharing such wonderful memories with us.'
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