Another musical legend has passed away. The 82-year-old chart-topping teen idol Lou Christie, who was well-known for his iconic hit song “Lightnin’ Strikes” and soaring falsetto, died on June 17.

From Pop Charts to Church Choirs
Christie, who was born Lugee Alfredo Giovanni Sacco in Glenwillard, Pennsylvania, initially found his voice in a choir at church. He recalled singing “Away in a Manger” during his first-grade Christmas pageant performance. A passion that never waned was ignited by that applause.

Later, he changed his stage name to Lou Christie and started recording in a small two-track studio in his hometown. He had no major label support, just unadulterated talent and determination.

The Ascent to Notoriety
Christie’s breakthrough hits were “The Gypsy Cried” and “Two Faces Have I” in 1963. But the song that catapulted him to fame was “Lightnin’ Strikes,” which he co-wrote with his longtime musical partner Twyla Herbert in 1966. On his 23rd birthday, the song peaked at number one.