- 2017-03-19
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MUSIC
Chuck Berry, Founding Father of Rock 'n' Roll, Dead at 90
American guitarist, singer-songwriter and one of the founding fathers of Rock & Roll, Chuck Berry died on Saturday at his Missouri home. He was 90.
The St. Charles County Police Department stated, "St. Charles County police responded to a medical emergency on Buckner Road at approximately 12:40 p.m. on Saturday, March 18. Inside the home, first responders observed an unresponsive man and immediately administered lifesaving techniques. Unfortunately, the 90-year-old man could not be revived and was pronounced deceased at 1:26 p.m."
Chuck Berry is known as a founding fathers of Rock & Roll, who hits such as "Johnny B. Goode," "Roll Over Beethoven," "Sweet Little Sixteen," "Maybellene" and "Memphis" melded elements of blues, rockabilly and jazz into some of the most timeless pop songs of the 20th century.
He was a monumental influence on many artists like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys and Bruce Springsteen among them.
He entered The Blues Foundation’s Blues Hall of Fame in 1985 and that year also received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
In October 2016 on his 90th birthday, the music legend announced plans to release a new album dedicated to his wife of 68 years;
"This record is dedicated to my beloved Toddy. My darlin', I'm growing old! I've worked on this record for a long time. Now I can hang up my shoes!"- 6ROwVrF0Ceg
- 6ROwVrF0Ceg
- 6ROwVrF0Ceg
Tributes to the musician from admirers came immediately.
The Rolling Stones wrote in a statement;
"The Rolling Stones are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Chuck Berry. He was a true pioneer of rock & roll and a massive influence on us. Chuck was not only a brilliant guitarist, singer and performer, but most importantly, he was a master craftsman as a songwriter. His songs will live forever."
Bruce Springsteen wrote on Twitter;
"Chuck Berry was rock's greatest practitioner, guitarist, and the greatest pure rock & roll writer who ever lived."
Brian Wilson wrote on Twitter;
"I am so sad to hear about Chuck Berry passing - a big inspiration! He will be missed by everyone who loves Rock & Roll. Love & Mercy."- source : Rolling Stone