The influential singer and pianist Jerry Lee Lewis, famous for the hit “Great Balls Of Fire” died at the age of 87. The information was confirmed by his publicist. He was born in Ferriday, Lousiana, United States back in September 29, 1935 and started his successful career 1949. Other famous songs from his career are “Breathless”, “Whole Lot Of Shakin’ Going On”, “Wild One” and “Save The Last Dance For Me”.
The official statement about the death of Jerry Lee Lewis says: “Somewhere in the world, in a mean little honky-tonk or big music hall or church basement rec room, someone is playing a Jerry Lee Lewis song.”
“(Jerry) suffered through the last years of his life from various illnesses and injuries that, his physicians have often said, should have taken him decades ago. He had abused his body so thoroughly as a young man he was given little chance of lasting through middle age, let alone old age. He is ready to leave,” the statement said.
Since the news of his passing was shared many famous rock stars paid tribute to the influential artist and Rock and Roll Garage selected some of those messages.
Rock stars react to the death of Jerry Lee Lewis
George Thorogood
“We are saddened to hear about the passing of the great Jerry Lee Lewis, your music and influence will shine on forever.” 🙏🏼
The Doors
“The world has lost another musical icon today. Rest in Peace @jerryleelewisthekiller, a pioneer of early rock n’ roll, and one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. With his legendary track “Great Balls of Fire,” Jerry Lee would kick the door open for artists like Elvis and Carl Perkins, and the wave of ’50s rockabilly that would cement itself as the roots of rock today as we know it. The Doors and Jim Morrison were heavily inspired by Lewis.”
Ringo Starr
“God bless Jerry lee Lewis peace and love to all his family Ringo. ”
Keith Richards
“‘Goodbye to the Killer’ RIP – Keith. (Video) From the 1983 Salute to Jerry Lee Lewis”
Ronnie Wood
“R.I.P JLL the Killer – What a man”.
Billy Joel
“R.I.P. Jerry Lee. – BJ”
John Densmore (The Doors)
“It was such an honor to insist on having Jerry Lee as our opening act, when we had the power to do so. His music runs the gamut of human feelings.”
Ritchie Blackmore
“Back in 1963 I played with Jerry Lee. We played all over Europe. I was in a band called the Outlaws. Jerry Lee never really told us what he was going to play..he just gave us the key. It was a wonderful learning experience and we will miss him.”
Scorpions
“Next to Elvis , Chuck Berry and Little Richard , Jerry Lee Lewis was a member of this very special club of early Rock‘n Rollers …. now he has passed at the age of 87 …. RIP Jerry Lee Lewis”
Billy Idol
“RIP @jerryleelewisthekiller here he is with myself @davestewarteurythmics and @briansetzer59 When we went to see him play at the Palomino club here in the valley a few years ago now! He was so great! -BFI”
Julian Lennon
“R.I.P”
Mick Jagger
“God bless you Jerry Lee. Your songs lit up my life !”
Elton John
“Without Jerry Lee Lewis, I wouldn’t have become who I am today. He was groundbreaking and exciting, and he pulverized the piano. A brilliant singer too. Thank you for your trailblazing inspiration and all the rock ‘n’ roll memories. @jerryleelewisthekiller #RIP”