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Melanie Safka
1947 - 2024
Melanie Safka
1947 - 2024
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1947
DIED
2024
Melanie Safka Obituary
Melanie was a folk singer and songwriter who had major hits in the 1970s with "Brand New Key" and "Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)," and she was one of three women who performed solo acts at Woodstock.
We invite you to share condolences for Melanie in our Guest Book.
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(Photo: GAB Archive/Redferns)
77 Entries
Glen Hockley
June 29, 2025
I know its over a year from my favorite female singer leaving us, I just want to say her voice and song made this a much better world.
Paula
May 29, 2025
Oh man, this woman changed my live from since I was a little kid. All my bad and happy moments she was there. Happy that I got to see her twice.
But i will not wheep, I will say thank you life for having been. Thanks Melanie
Stephen Fairman
May 8, 2025
Loved her voice.
Sheila ewall
April 20, 2025
I meant Melanie Kafka. Sorry if I misspelled last name. I meant Melanie safka
How you can show support
Stephen Hoe
April 19, 2025
Thank you so much for your music and messages. Sing with the angels. Stephen.
February 9, 2025
Grew up listening to her beautiful voice. My sincere condolences
Azalia Snail
February 3, 2025
Well, it´s been just over a year since we lost the magnificently talented and charming Melanie. I´m so happy that I had a chance to become friends and sing with her on occasion. She had a surprisingly wonderful wit, too. Shine on, dear one!
John McKenzie
January 26, 2025
I saw Melanie at the Isle of Wight in 1970. It must have been early morning or before dark (probably the former), but I remember her very well. I liked her stuff so me and my pal worked our way as close to the stage as we could get, into a place where we shouldn't be, and I recall watching her sing up above us on stage. There a lot of good acts there (!), but she stood out for me. Shame to hear she's passed.
John Ferrell
December 10, 2024
I saw Melanie on TV in 1971 while awaiting my flight that would get me to VIETNAM but what I saw and heard in my heart was the sound of pure beauty as she sang PEACE WILL COME ! And I held on to her words all my life, I saw her in Boston at the civic center and I still can smell her perfume today.. albeit she passed in January she will be in my heart forever I am 77 and my heart will go on LOVE IS FOREVER
ROSALIND HAMMER
December 7, 2024
i MET MELANIE SEVERAL YEARS AGO IN A SMALL CAFE IN OXF00ORD NY. I WAS SO IMPRESSED BY HER HUMILITY AND GRACEFULL WAY. WE SPOKE FOR AWHILE AMD SHE SIGNED MY CANDLES IN THE RAIN ALBUM. I HAVE BEEN A LOVING FAN OF HERS FOR YEARS AND HAVE ALL OF HER RECORDS AND CD'S, I WILL MISS HER GREATLY. I SHARE THE SADNESS OF HER FAMILY AND CLOSE FRIENDS.
HERMES Rodriguez
October 13, 2024
Melanie first and FOREMOST WAS AND IS A POET a true inspired ORIGINAL .Her ART was whimsical lyrical humorous always ORIGINAL. I am an admirer FOREVER .PLEASE LISTEN THESE TO TWO DIAMONDS DEAD AND GONE and CHOSEN FEW simply splendid . MELANIE WE WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU
Elizabeth Grandbois
August 29, 2024
Elizabeth Grandbois
August 29, 2024
Elizabeth Grandbois
August 29, 2024
I felt very sorry to hear of Melanie's passing. I bought my two daughters roller skates and after we had our first practice session out on our street, I played Melanie's song for them, 'Brand New Key'.
They were delighted and it brought back memories of my youth and my own experience roller skating. Thank you Melanie...your gift of music is now part of my grandchildren's experience.
Marian Schomp
August 23, 2024
I first saw Melanie at the Valley Forge Music Fair in the 70's. She always would take the time to sign autographs and take pictures. She was most awesome and I miss her so!
Bruce Wayne Holroyd
August 22, 2024
I first heard of Melanie when I walked into a lunch bar at a restaurant in 1971. I had just celebrated my 19th birthday and decided to play a few songs on the jukebox, I saw the cover of Melanie's newest single, "Lay Down ( Candles In The Rain )" and from that moment, I was hooked! I thought that her music was so different than anything else that kids my age listened to ! She was young and sang songs that reflected the times and experiences that I was going through back then, so it was easy to find connection and solace in the messages that she conveyed. As time went on, I bought her albums as they were released and developed an affection for her natural beauty and her gentle, caring soul. Her eyes captivated me and her smile was spiritually intoxicating, her voice was plaintive and seductive smultaneously, so I kept listening through the passing years, always hoping to meet her in person just once... if only to briefly say, "Thank You for filling my life with your gift of music!" I never got the chance to meet her, but, Somehow, I believe that her spirit is looking down and smiling in the same enchanting way. I miss her terribly and shall always regard her as my favorite female musical artist of all time!
Melanie, sing your heart out for the angels that now surround you in your glorious home in Heaven. Down here, on Earth, I am still listening and loving you with my heart... sadly broken the day that you left! God Bless You, 'Dear One!'
Larry Impson
June 30, 2024
Melani was one of the first songwriters that I truly enjoyed. Her music made me happy. I will miss her music, her smile, and her love for life. Rest easy Melanie. You deserve it.
A picture
June 28, 2024
A photo. RIP
Edward Legenza
June 20, 2024
Was born in 1949. Might not be that long until I hear her wonderful voice again.
Thanks Melanie for the songs and the fine example of a life well lived.
Deanna carucci
May 29, 2024
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Darryl and Wendy Sanborn
May 22, 2024
An Angel has returned to her plae in heaven, GOD loves good music !
Jim Iandoli
May 12, 2024
I saw Melanie perform at Jersey City State College when I was very young ,my brother went there and took me to her concert . She sat on the edge of the stage with her legs Dangling , just a Nylon string guitar , no PA,or amp . Just her and her guitar . Her voice filled the hall like thunder , to this day ,it was my best musical experience, she was like a powerful Angel singing her heart out . She was truly God inspired. May she rest with the Angels.
Melanie Weir
February 28, 2024
My parents named me after Melanie. I was born in January 1973. It was my hope to one day meet her and tell her their story. My heart is now broken forever that I will never get to do that. Melanie your music has touched my heart in countless way. Fly high, my name sake, fly high!
Calvia Byrd
February 26, 2024
I named my daughter after Melanie. The headlines in the paper read " Melanie Has Arrived". That was 52 years ago on February 17, 1972. We had the name before my daughter´s birth. This was when gender parties were celebrated at the birth. Melanie was a kind gentle soul and I wanted my daughter to have those same qualities. Her music was and continues to be inspiring and joyful. Melanie´s playfulness was crafted in her music. At the same time Melanie spoke for a generation about peace and caring for one another. Melanie will be remembered as her music will never die.
Howard Speizer
February 25, 2024
One of the greatest American female singers with one of most unique voices.
Toby
February 25, 2024
I've listened to Melanie since 1970 and there are few days I haven't played an album, a track or some form of recording since. RIP Melanie.
Erika Ewen
February 20, 2024
I remember hearing Melanie at a concert in 1975. She was only 13 years older than me. I was and continue to be positively influenced by Melanie's songs.
May Melanie Rest in Peace!
The Queen is dead. Long live the same Queen forever through her music and songs!
We shall meet again one day, Ruby Tuesday!
Terry Williams
February 17, 2024
In 1994, when we were living in San Antonio, TX. I took my 2 eldest kids to meet Melanie and see her perform at the Kerrville Folk Festival. Maria was 7 and Brandon was 6, so they do not remember that. They enjoyed meeting Melanie though, and of course, Melanie enjoyed meeting them. I took a pic, but I gave it to Melanie, otherwise I'd add the photo. Although my kids didn't remember meeting Melanie, they grew up knowing who she was, because they grew up listening to her music. My kids meeting Melanie and seeing her in concert was indeed a very special memory which I shall never forget.
Laurence Edwards
February 16, 2024
So sad to see the passing of a superb singer with such a magic voice. She is much missed.
Laurence John Edwards
February 16, 2024
First hearing of Melanie was years ago when on holiday in Sydney Australia & on walking around city streets & bars became aware of Lay Down, Lay Down, Candles in the Rain, a song that had Sydney in it's grips, wherever I went. As time passed, other songs came from the wonderful Melanie, all very memorable... Most sad in the passing of Melanie, she was a rare gem.
Marian Schomp
February 15, 2024
I have loved you and your music from the beginning. You will be greatly missed. I am thankful we still have your music and wonderful memories. Rest In Peace, Melanie.
Larry Impson
February 14, 2024
Woodstock! She was one fine lady. She will ne missed.
Laurence Edwards
February 14, 2024
So sad to see the passing of a superb singer with such a magic voice. She is much missed.
Warren Foster
February 12, 2024
All my love to her family
Her music and love will live on forever
Terry Caldwell
February 10, 2024
The first time I heard "Lay Down" (Candles In The Rain) I just about fell out of my chair! Great & different song and the song "Brand new key" was really a fine composition as well! So glad Melanie made it happen as a musician!
William Evans
February 9, 2024
My first Melanie albums came out of a bargain bin in the basement of Woolworths when I was 12 years old, I've been listening all my life, I saw her in concert at the Ambassador Theater in St. Louis when I was 15, a truly magical moment in my life. I'm 65 now and have loved her music my entire life, I feel as if she was family. May she rest in peace, I send her children my love . Will ... Spring TX.
David Pirtle
February 8, 2024
Rest in peace and love.
Theresa Williams
February 6, 2024
The first time I saw Melanie in concert was at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center Sept. 5, 1971, with my sisters. We did not meet her then, we met her in 1972 and loved her from then on. We saw her many, many times. We will love Melanie always and we will miss her.
She was a beautiful person who brought joy to so many. Now she is a beautiful Angel. Our hearts go out to Leilah, Jeordie, Beau and the kids, and all the rest of Melanie´s loved ones. Terry (White) Williams
Wil tabak
February 5, 2024
Lay Down, Candles in the Rain, you where one of the few musicians that has forever left an inedible impression on me. Melanie, never to be forgotten, RIP? Wil
William Evans
February 5, 2024
I have been a fan since I was in highschool, I'm 65 years young now and still love her, she has always been a part of my world, I will miss her. RIP dear Melanie from your dear one Day ill
Marilynn Willits
February 5, 2024
What a profound loss! Melanie is "Dancing In The Sky" now. She is sorely missed.
Lisa weiner
February 5, 2024
To Melanie Safka,
You were a very talented entertainer. I liked your song brand new key. My prayers go to your family and friends Lisa Weiner
Ray Sterrett
February 4, 2024
I saw her perform at the Royal Albert Hall in the 1970's. She was awesome. So sad to her of her passing...
Lisa weiner
February 4, 2024
To Melanie Safka,
You were a very talented entertainer. I liked your brand new key. My prayers go to your family and friends . Lisa Weiner
Steven Zatko
February 4, 2024
So sorry for the passing of Melanie i grew up with her kinda i had the 45rpm Lay down i played it over and over you where so cute when that song came out,and you were always pretty thank you for your music growing up,GOD bless all of you
Mark Stephens
February 2, 2024
I liked the song Aunt Melanie sang at Woodstock with the Edwin Hawkins sisters Candles in the rain
Kenny L
February 1, 2024
I remember playing her 45 of Brand New Key over and over as a child and always having Melanie's music around me. Our Dear Sweet Melanie, Thank you for a lifetime of music and memories.
Stephanie Ardolino
February 1, 2024
RIP Melanie! You´re with Your Mom, Polly, my Mom Ann, and your beloved Husband.
I know you´re all making beautiful music in the next realm! Until I am reunited with you, all, May your memory be a blessing.
Sly John Collins
January 31, 2024
Hearing the news ain’t like being there.. I was shocked and saddened to hear .. I too was drawn to the radio in 6th grade 1970 whenever Lay Down came onlater on I would become collector and huge fan of Melanie.. was fortunate to see her and meet family in Kerville Folk festival then she and Beau twice In Houston.. she was so generous with fan and Beau super nice She will sing Forever!!! Leilah .. Jeordie and Beau stay strong..Godspeed
Joe Carella
January 31, 2024
I was a tad too young to go to Woodstock but Melanie's music remains resonates in my mind to this day. Also an Astoria, NY native, I never expected to ever meet her but lo and behold there she was when I was visiting Arizona in 2016. I sat with friends in the front row of a small recording studio when I requested "The Nickel Song" and she graciously obliged. I thought, can life can any better? I also saw her performance at Stephen Talkhouse in Amagansett, NY in the 90s.
Paul David Roman
January 31, 2024
I, too, am a graduate of Red Bank High School Class of 1964 and, like Melanie, was selected along with 2 other classmates to be recognized as a member of the RBHS Student Hall of Fame. Many of our classmates followed her career progression with interest and admiration. We are planning our 60th Class Reunion and plan to note her passing. It is not often that high school classmates have the pleasure of following the success of someone like Melanie who charmed so many with her talent.
Victor M Rodriguez
January 31, 2024
She will always be in heart she is my favorite singer One of my granddaughter it was named after her,bless you Melanie.
Meade A
January 30, 2024
Melanie had a gift that lead her to be the very first folk music performer ever to grace the stage of the Metropolitan Opera House and the first female solo artist (of only three total, one of which was Janice Joplin!) at Woodstock, 1969. To say her music had an impact on American culture (and my life) is an understatement. I never met Melanie in this life, but I am going to miss her terribly.
Rest in peace Miss Melanie. Thank you for giving us the gift of your music. May you move on to brighter and higher places full of love, light, and music.
Roberta Montes
January 30, 2024
Thank you Melanie, for your sweet voice, your music will live on forever!
Deborah Jones
January 30, 2024
I always loved the song, 'Brand New Key'... It reminds me of the great childhood I had... In that time, people were more honest, life was void of the disturbing shows and movies on TV, life was more innocent and clean, and had big dreams for our future... We spent most of our time outside being creative, and playing sports with the neighbor kids, neighbors looked out for neighbors, etc... I will never forget that song, and how happy it made me to listen to it and sing a long... God bless you and your family...
Paul Dourlet
January 30, 2024
I loved her work .From Candles in the Rain ,Beautiful People ,Brand New Key and the the song Psychotherapy which is very ,very funny
Nancy Read
January 29, 2024
I was devastated to hear of Melanie´s passing. Have been a huge fan for decades. I was thrilled when I got to meet her backstage in Calgary many years ago. She was so friendly and down to earth and I still have the pic of she and I from that magical night. This world has lost a true humanitarian and beautiful woman. We will miss you terribly. Rest in power, Melanie. There will never be anyone else like you. My deepest sympathies to your family. Goodbye for now.
Nancy Read
Calgary
Bill Reilly
January 29, 2024
Hearing Lay Down as a boy in Ossining, NY and buying the 45. I was also born in Astoria. RIP Melanie.
Al McClung
January 29, 2024
I was saddened to hear of Melanie's passing - When I had just moved to Colorado in 1970, I was so homesick for my previous state of NC - her version of "Carolina in my Mind" really helped my 14 year old self, it brought me a lot of comfort. I loved the whole Candles in the Rain album. Never got to see her live, but would have loved it!
Condolences to her family and friends, she brought so much love to the world, and never started from her original message - "Men can live as brothers"
We'll all miss your beautiful face and voice- I hope you're flying free now!
Chris Constant
January 29, 2024
She was my inspiration on life ! Im crying as I’m writing this ! She was my savior. I lived my entire life through her music and songs . I’m here today because of this great lady . She was the dearest friend anyone could have had on the earths soil my beautiful friend Melanie love you forever in my heart
Daniel Barber
January 29, 2024
I’ve spent the last week disconnected from WiFi. I’ve been on vacation from work, news, and the interwebs. I only learned this morning of Melanie’s passing. The 10 year old version of me had a huge crush on her. I wore out the grooves on my mother’s copy of Gather Me. The 61 year old me cried for an hour this morning while listening to her album, Candles in the Rain. To me, she was the embodiment of goodness, beauty and hope. She was the hippie girl who sang about peace at Woodstock. She had an album that you could scratch and sniff and it smelled like flowers. She encouraged her fans to not only light candles, but to be the light that drives away the darkness. I lit my candle in remembrance tonight, as requested by her children. Shine the living light.
Sheila Ewall
January 28, 2024
Read on my smartphone and discovered Melanie's passing on Jan 23,2024. Some new years greeting. I am sorry to learn the sad news. Do not know the cause of death. At any rate, want to convey my condolences and express my heartfelt sympathy to her family, friends, relatives and music fans. Have not heard anything about her in a long time. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Derek Danowski
January 28, 2024
What a Women !!! you're music will
Live on Forever ~ we will miss you
MAGIC LADY RIP ~
John W
January 27, 2024
My first album was one of hers and I saw her in concert in the UK in 1974. I'm a lifelong fan and she'll be missed. However, the many stories and songs live on for us all to enjoy. My thanks for all you have created and shared. My condolences to your three children who will keep your candles burning.
Joanne Pratt
January 27, 2024
Melanie....thank you for your beautiful music. Stoneground Words was my favorite record in my parents collection. You will always be the voice of folk music for me!!
Kristyne Christensen Baas
January 27, 2024
I was 12 years old when I heard the single drumbeat that introduced me to the song "Lay Down." I was captivated by the visuals the lyrics brought to my mind ("some came to keep the dark away!) My 12 year old heart was settled: one day I would see Melanie in concert.
Meanwhile, my vinyl collection kept growing with her albums. Such collection grew into CD´s (from 8 track technology) where my kids would listen and sing along to "Animals Crackers" and "Ring the Living Bell." Melanie sang "Estate Sale" and "Arrow" which opened my music world to Cheryl Wheeler; another incredibly talented singer/songwriter, (Yes, the kids learned CW songs, as well!). However, the clock kept ticking and my vow to see a Melanie concert grew dim. Forty five years is a long time.....
November 11 of 2017, my husband took me to see Melanie at an intimate gathering of devoted fans in Michigan. After the show, my long awaited vow grew into a treasured memory; one that I have held close to my heart since the news of her passing. I am thankful for the years of music and that 5 minutes where our lives intersected.
Melanie sang "Life will not go away...." Neither will her voice....
My deepest condolences
Johnny Maniscalco
January 26, 2024
I fell in love with Melanie at 12 years old because of her outward beauty. When I hear her sing Lay Down, I melted. What a amazing, beautiful and talented soul inside and out. I am beyond heartbroken at 66 years old. Melanie has finally lain down. Thank you for everything you did to my heart.
Mary Shortell
January 26, 2024
Melanie, thank you for all the joy you brought to so many hearts.
Going to see you in concert was always the highlight of my social calendar.
My deepest condolences to your three children. May your beautiful soul rest in peace. You built up so much good karma in this lifetime that I have to believe your continued journey will be a very happy one.
Donna James
January 26, 2024
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. Rest in Peace, Melanie, and You will be in Heaven with Jesus.
Robert Foster
January 26, 2024
The Stage was her living room and everyone invited to come and share an evening of song,stories,and family.
Her voice filled every venue with love and lyric.
A candle which burns bright in the heavens and in the heart.
Elizabeth Bell
January 25, 2024
Rip Melanie
Deborah Skiscim
January 25, 2024
My deepest sympathy and prayers for your loving family, friends & forever fans. You brought such a beautiful smile, light into our world. You gave us young girls hope, power & a platform of everlasting love. Your gift will never be forgotten. I cherish everything you taught through your musical experiences. I've done my best to pass it on in my own way to my daughter. Our world is a much better place because of you. Blessings and peace forever
Taffi Laing
January 25, 2024
I Met Melanie when she was performing with a bunch of 60s and 70s bands in the USA. I was there with my husband, the original drummer from the band Mountain, who was also performing. It was a thrill for me to meet all these fab performers in the USA. She was lovely, kind and beautiful. I have fond memories. I want to also send my sincere condolences to her family. She will be missed
Marc Supan
January 25, 2024
Oh dear Melanie I've been a fan since the 70s but never got a chance to see you live as you were on East Coast and I was on West Coast but may your legacy as a bright shining light both in music and in life carry on forever.
CA
January 25, 2024
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Gil Padilla
January 25, 2024
Brand New key was a song I remember hearing during my childhood in the early 70s. Makes me sad to hear about her passing. Thank you for being a part of my childhood memories. Rest In Paradise Melanie
Judy Martin
January 25, 2024
Talented woman, sorry, Listented to her Brand New Key recording last night
on the radio
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