Jerry Lee Lewis, one of Rock and Roll’s first major stars, passed away today at the age of 87.
Pounding the piano keys as hard as he pounded alcohol, Lewis sang fast, played faster, and with his signature hair flop, he became a world-wide sensation when his hit, “Great Balls of Fire” was heard across the radio and on the early days of television.
Churning out other raucous hits like “High School Confidential”, “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” and “Breathless”, Lewis’ career derailed when it was revealed he married his 13-year-old cousin, Myra Gale Brown, which cost him album and ticket sales. Still one of the top live acts in the business, Lewis rebounded in the late 60’s in the Country genre, scoring multiple number ones on that chart.
Lewis was named to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s first class in 1986, and he was recently chosen for the Country Music Hall of Fame. He also is a recipient of the Grammy’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
We here at Notinhalloffame.com would like to extend our condolences to the fans, friends and family of Jerry Lee Lewis.
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