Fats Domino, one of the pioneers of rock and roll music in the 1950s and 1960s, died on Tuesday of natural causes in his home city of New Orleans, AP reported. He was 89.
The local coroner’s office in Louisiana confirmed the American singer’s death, which his daughter had announced to a local television station earlier, according to the BBC.
Fats Domino, whose real name was Antoine Domino Jr, was best known for his songs “Ain’t That A Shame” (1955) and “Blueberry Hill” (1956). “Blueberry Hill” was selected for the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry of historic sound recordings worthy of preservation.
According to Rolling Stone, Fats Domino – with 110 million records sold – was second only to Elvis Presley. His single “The Fat Man” is considered by some as the first rock and roll record. Presley himself referred to Fats Domino as “the real king of rock and roll”.
He was among the first 10 artists to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!