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Neil Sedaka, with help from Elton John, hit No. 1 40 years ago

Neil Sedaka
Singer Neil Sedaka performed with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra on stage at the Sydney Opera House on May 9, 2008, in Sydney
Lisa Maree Williams | Getty Images 2008

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Today's Morning Edition music is from "Bad Blood" by Neil Sedaka, which was No. 1 on the Billboard pop chart 40 years ago Tuesday.

It was the biggest hit of Sedaka's career.

Philip Cody, who co-authored the song, said in an interview that "the whole idea of people being good or evil because of what goes on in their blood was just part of the superstitious nature of my Sicilian upbringing."

Elton John provided the uncredited background vocals on the song. His recording of "Island Girl" would replace "Bad Blood" at the top of the charts.