Photo: Press
Chuck Berry, the godfather of rock and roll music has died, aged 90.
The 'Johnny B Goode', 'Maybellene', and 'Roll Over Beethoven' star, who made rock music what it is, was pronounced dead at home today (18 March) at 13:26 (CDT), according to police in US state of Missouri.
According to the St Charles County police statement, Parademics were called to a medical emergency at Chuck Berry's home and found him lifeless at 12:40. They began life saving techniques but nothing could be done and less than an hour later they confirmed his death.
Berry, whose full name was Charles Edward Anderson Berry Sr., started out his career in 1955 and even had plans to put out a self-produced album - that's already recorded - this year.
The legend, who influenced the likes of The Rolling Stones and The Beatles, wrote in a press release that the LP, which is titled Chuck, is dedicated to his 58-year-old wife Thelmetta. The album which will now, sadly will be a posthumous release, is the late star's first studio album since 1979's Rock It.
Berry knew it was going to be his last, and he out in a statement: "My darlin’ I’m growing old! I’ve worked on this record for a long time. Now I can hang up my shoes!"
It's remarkable to see how sharp he was right up until the very end of his life. What he's contributed to music will never be forgotten, his sound will remain a part of the fabric Western popular culture all over the globe forever.
His epic live performances, which saw him become one of the most wanted performers in the world during his heyday, will never be forgotten neither will his distinctive sharp style.
Berry was one of the first people to be inducted into the Rock and Roll hall of fame (1986) and he received a Grammy Lifetime achievement award in 1984. Tributes from the music world have stated pouring in on social media.
