Brian Hyland, born on November 12, 1943, in Woodhaven, Queens, New York, is an American pop singer whose career took off in the early 1960s. At just 16 years old, he achieved his first major success with the novelty hit “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini,” which soared to the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1960. This catchy tune not only made him a household name, but also earned him a prestigious Gold Record.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Following the success of his debut hit, Hyland transitioned from Kapp Records to ABC Paramount. There, he collaborated with the songwriting duo Gary Geld and Peter Udell, producing a series of chart-topping songs. Notable among these were “Let Me Belong to You,” “Ginny Come Lately,” “Sealed with a Kiss,” and “Warmed-over Kisses.” These tracks solidified his status in the pop music scene and showcased his versatility as an artist.
Musical Evolution and Collaborations
Hyland’s journey through the music industry saw him collaborating with several notable figures. During his tenure at Philips Records, he worked with renowned talents such as producer Snuff Garrett and musicians Leon Russell and JJ Cale. This period produced hits like “The Joker Went Wild” and “Run, Run, Look and See,” both of which achieved significant chart success.
In 1970, Hyland teamed up with producer Del Shannon to record a rendition of Curtis Mayfield’s “Gypsy Woman.” This soulful track resonated with audiences, reaching number three on the US charts and selling over three million copies globally. Part of the magic of Brian Hyland songs is his ability to reinterpret and breathe new life into existing songs, highlighting his adaptability and deep understanding of music.
Later Career and Legacy
In 1977, Hyland moved to New Orleans to collaborate with the legendary Allen Toussaint. Together, they produced the album In a State of Bayou, which received critical acclaim and is considered one of Hyland’s finest works.
Demonstrating his enduring passion for music, Hyland reunited with Peter Udell in 2023 to record a new Christmas song titled “A Little Bit of Christmas Time.” This release marked the 60th anniversary of “Sealed with a Kiss” and showcased Hyland’s continued relevance in the music industry.
Throughout his extensive career, Brian Hyland has continually evolved, collaborating with various artists and exploring different musical styles. His contributions have left a lasting impact on the pop music landscape, and his timeless melodies continue to resonate with audiences across generations.
See Brian Hyland at Main Street Crossing
See Brian Hyland perform in an intimate setting at Main Street Crossing on August 10, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Click here to purchase tickets.
MSC in Tomball, Texas, is one of the best small music venues in the Houston metro area. This unique nonprofit in a historic venue hosts country, Americana, folk, blues, and other types of music artists in an intimate setting: The furthest seat is only 45 feet from the stage. MSC also offers food, beverages, table service, and community seating, making it easier to interact with fellow concertgoers and even performing artists. Parking is convenient and stress-free.
MSC additionally functions as a multi-use venue for church services, concerts, and more in Tomball. Check out our event calendar and enjoy entertainment in support of good causes!
