Dan Fogelberg: 1951-2007

Dan Fogelberg passed away Sunday, Dec. 16, of prostate cancer at his home in Maine. He was 56.

One of his many hits, "Same Old Lang Syne," which was dubbed the second-most sad song of the 80s on a previous Stuck in the 80s list, was actually inspired by a real-life encounter Fogelberg had in Peoria, Illinois. He bumped into an old girlfriend in a convenience store, and the song takes it from there, describing the meeting detail by detail.

His death was announced on his official website:

"Dan left us this morning at 6:00am. He fought a brave battle with cancer and died peacefully at home in Maine with his wife Jean at his side. His strength, dignity, and grace in the face of the daunting challenges of this disease were an inspiration to all who knew him."

Comments

[Marissa]

Say what you want about the sappy factor of Dan Fogelberg's music, but I enjoy it ... even "Same Old Lang Syne". May he finally rest in peace; his battle is over.
Thanks for posting this Steve.

[Spiky Sandy]

Dan could always bring a tear to my eye with Leader of the Band and Same Old Lang Syne. But, my favorite was Run for the Roses. God bless, Dan! I hope we meet in Heaven some day.

[Dr_Dug]

Another piece of History passes and again I feel even older. My Prayers go to the Fogelberg Family. Anther Angel has Risen!!

[Greg Jones]

A great 80s star. Despite lack of critical respect, and being shunned by the rock community, this guy was loved by a bunch of folks and sold piles of records. He'll be missed.

[Bassnote]

I always liked Leader Of The Band, and Part Of The Plan. My prayers are with the Fogelberg family. The music world has lost another great member.

[Dale]

I had the pleasure to see Dan Fogelberg in at Purdue University back in the late 70's...no band just Dan on stage with a piano and an acoustic guitar....it was a pretty large theater but he made it so personal.....kinda like Jim Croce and Harry Chapin....it's like Dr_Dug said the news too made me ponder the past 49 years of my life and I feel a little older today and sadden at the passing of Dan Fogleberg...but they'll be dancing in Heaven tonight. God bless you Dan Fogleberg.

[Jeff in Cuba]

Despite the ridiculous story I've previously shared about my ill-fated trip to a Fogelberg concert back in the 80's, there's no denying he was a skilled singer/songwriter and by all accounts a good person. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during what will surely be a rough holiday season.

[Melissa]

I'm 24 years old and have loved his music since I was a child. Many of his songs take me back to some of the happiest memories of my childhood. I love all of his music but especially love the sappy songs ;) My prayers are with his loved ones. He will be missed.

[John in St. Pete]

A truely gifted singer/songwriter is now playing for another audience. I still get chills hearing his music and touching lyrics. If you are looking for something else of his than the usual greatest hits, check out "Windows and Walls." My prayers and thoughts go out to Jean and the family, he will be missed.

[Ian from Down Under]

Dan Fogelberg was one of the very few singers that could transport you into his songs. I have spent countless hours in the store watching him bump into his old girlfriend. And feeling the snow turn into rain. A true gift. Thank You Dan. Gone way too early, but thanks for leaving your music behind.

[Stacey in Vegas]

Dan Fogelberg's music was Poetic, Timeless, and irreplaceable. No one could spin a yarn quite like he could. My only regret is that he did not share more of his songs.

Thanks Steve for the reminder.