Dan Fogelberg, Singer Songwriter, Dead!

Dan Fogelberg, multi-platinum selling singer songwriter died today at his home in Maine, according to the Associated Press, after a four year battle with prostrate cancer. He was 56 years old.

The singer song writer was known for his sensitive story telling within his songs.

Ironically, his death comes close to the holidays, when one of his most popular ballads, "Same Old Lang Syne," tells the story of a chance meeting with and old love in the grocery aisles at the holidays.

Fogelberg was born in Peoria, Illinois, August 13, 1951. His official web site describes that Fogelberg's father taught music in local high schools, colleges and even gave private lessons.

One year his grandfather gave him an old Hawaiian guitar, with pictures of hula girls engraved on it, and Fogelberg taught himself chords. He was gifted both as a lyricist and a songwriter, creating many memorable melodies.

Like so many of his generation he was influenced by the Beatles, whom he first heard in 1963. This inspired Fogelberg to start writing his own songs.

His web site lists his first band as "The Clan", no doubt inspired by his Scottish grandfather's heritage, and he played with band mates at backyard parties and street dances.

Fogelberg painted throughout his life, but when he left Peoria for the University of Illinois, in Champaign-Urbana, he decided to turn to acting.

But it was music that finally won out.

Fogelberg's biography page states that a local music agent, Irving Azoff, who had already worked a deal with the then regional band REO Speedwagon, wanted to hear him play one night. Azoff was convinced that Fogelberg had what it took to make the big time, and Fogelberg dropped out of college.

Dropping out came as a shock to his father, but the old band leader and music teacher gave his blessing. Years later, Fogelberg would record a beautiful tribute to his father, "Leader of the Band", which was a popular seller.

Azoff signed Fogelberg to Columbia Records, in 1971.

Success followed. "Souvenirs" was a breakthrough album, with "Part of the Plan" being the stand out cut on the record.

Though not trying to be a chart topping artist, Fogelberg managed to achieve some heights none-the-less.

One song he added to the "Twin Sons of Different Mothers" album, with Tim Weisberg, was the "Power of Gold".

His greatest success is probably "The Innocent Age" album.

Fogelberg enjoyed business success, but suffered personally from a divorce and a disconnection from real life from frequent touring. Eventually he shaved his beard and turned his work to more spiritual and natural things, which were then reflected in his music.

His last album was 2003's "Full Circle".

After Fogelberg was diagnosed with prostrate cancer he began urging men to be tested.

Survivors include his wife, Jean, who was with him when he died.

This article was compiled from information provided by Associated Press and danfogelberg.com