Legendary Folk Singer Melanie, Known for Brand New Key and Lay Down, Passes Away at 76

Sad news has emerged of the passing of Melanie, the iconic folk singer whose chart-topping hits “Brand New Key“ and “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)“ resonated with audiences worldwide. Melanie, who also graced the stage at the historic Woodstock festival in 1969, breathed her last at the age of 76. The singer’s representative, Billy James, confirmed her death to Rolling Stone but did not disclose the cause. In a statement, Melanie’s children, born Melania Safka, expressed their gratitude to fans, saying, “We are heartbroken, but want to thank each and every one of you for the affection you have for our Mother, and to tell you that she loved all of you so much!“ Melanie is remembered as one of the most talented, strong, and passionate women of her era.