Singer Lou Christie, known for hits like “Lightnin’ Strikes” and “Rhapsody in the Rain,” has died at the age of 82.
His wife, Francesca, told The Hollywood Reporter that he passed away at home in Pittsburgh on Wednesday after a brief illness.
“It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of our beloved brother, Lou Christie, who left us after a brief illness. 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.” The Sacco Family posted a tribute to Christie on Instagram.
Lou Christie born Lugee Alfredo Giovanni Sacco was Raised in Glenwillard, Pennsylvania, a small town near Pittsburgh. He showed an early interest in music. He studied voice and music theory and began performing in his teens. He eventually formed a lasting songwriting partnership with Twyla Herbert, a classically trained pianist several decades his senior. Together, they wrote hundreds of songs over the years.
Christie’s breakout hit came in 1962 with “The Gypsy Cried,” which reached the Top 30 and established him as a rising star. He followed that success with “Two Faces Have I” in 1963, a Top 10 hit that further showcased his distinct falsetto.
His biggest moment came in 1966 with the release of “Lightnin’ Strikes,” which hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a defining song of the era. That same year, he released “Rhapsody in the Rain,” a controversial yet successful single that was one of the first pop songs to hint at teen sexuality.
Later in the 1960s, Christie scored another major hit with “I’m Gonna Make You Mine,” which became a Top 10 success in the U.S. and reached No. 2 in the U.K. He continued recording into the 1970s and beyond, with albums like Paint America Love earning cult followings. Christie also remained active on the oldies concert circuit for decades.
