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Dec 7, 1942 - Jul 16, 1981 (38 years old)
Greenwich Village
Male
United States of America
Songwriter , singer , Musician , Singer-songwriter , Author , Playwright , Composer , Music Arranger
Harry Chapin was an influential American singer and songwriter who accumulated a net worth of $1 million by the time of his untimely death in 1981. Best known for his chart-topping single "Cat's in the Cradle," Chapin's music continues to resonate with audiences.
Born in New York City in December 1942, Harry Chapin displayed musical talents from a young age. He mastered the guitar, piano, trumpet, and harmonica, and quickly became one of the top performers of the 1970s. His debut album, Heads & Tales, was released in 1972.
Chapin's 1974 album Verities & Balderdash reached #4 on the US and Canadian charts, propelled by the success of "Cat's in the Cradle," which soared to the #1 spot on the US Billboard Hot 100. Throughout his career, Chapin received several accolades, including a Grammy Award and induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Aside from his musical achievements, Chapin was a dedicated humanitarian. He played a pivotal role in creating the Presidential Commission on World Hunger and was honored with a Congressional Gold Medal for his relentless efforts to combat hunger.
Harry Chapin's life was tragically cut short on July 16, 1981, when he died in an auto accident at the age of 38. His widow filed a lawsuit against the owners of the truck involved in the accident, eventually securing a $10 million settlement.
