Ellie Greenwich dies

Ellie Greenwich – who inspired the musical Leader Of The Pack – has died, reports say.

The 68-year-old suffered an apparant heart attack in New York, leaving behind a remarkable musical legacy.

She was one of the most talented songwriters of her generation, penning such songs as ‘Chapel Of Love’, ‘Da Doo Ron Ron’ and ‘Then He Kissed Me’.

Leader Of The Pack was based on her career and personal life, and made its professional Australian debut in 2003 in Sydney.

That production starred Hayley Law (pictured with John Paul Young) in what was her commercial musical theatre debut.

A year later, the show moved to Melbourne and Amanda Harrison took over the role of Greenwich.

Greenwich attended both opening nights personally.