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Lou Christie, the singer known for hits like “Lightnin’ Strikes” and “Rhapsody in the Rain,” passed away at the age of 82 as confirmed by his family.
Christie died at home in his native Pittsburgh following a short illness of an undisclosed nature, Francesca, his wife, told The Hollywood Reporter.
In a post on the singer’s Instagram, the Sacco family expressed their deep sadness and announced the passing of Lou Christie after a brief illness.
at his Pittsburgh home Wednesday at the age of 82, according to his family. Getty Images
The family’s message referred to Lou Christie as a beloved brother who was not only adored by his family and close friends but also by numerous fans who were touched by his kindness, artistic talent, humor, and spirit. His absence is deeply felt by all who knew him.
Born Lugee Alfredo Giovanni Sacco in 1943, the falsetto crooner grew up in Pittsburgh suburb Gelnwillard — moving to New York right after high school, in 1961, to pursue a career in the music industry.
Christie had two minor hits in 1963 — “The Gypsy Cried,” which made it to No. 24 on the Hot 100 in March, and “Two Faces Have I,” which peaked at No. 6 in June of that year, according to Billboard.
In 1966, Christie had his breakthrough with “Lightnin’ Strikes,” which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in February.
Lightning struck again the next month with the controversial “Rhapsody in the Rain,” which peaked at No. 16 — but initially faced limited radio play due to its then-raunchy lyrics.
Christie provocatively sang, “We were makin’ out in the rain/ And in this car, our love went much too far,” which was considered over-the-top suggestive by radio listeners in 1966.
The lyrics were changed to “We fell in love in the rain/ And you and I were feelin’ no pain.”
Christie is survived by two children and his wife Francesca.
