Meat Loaf, the legendary singer of hits such as “I’d Do Anything for Love” and “Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad”, has died aged 74.
The Grammy winner, born Marvin Lee Aday, passed away on Thursday night (20 January). The cause of his death has not been disclosed.
A post on his official Facebook page read: “Our hearts are broken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight with his wife Deborah by his side. Daughters Pearl and Amanda and close friends have been with him throughout the last 24 hours...
“We know how much he meant to so many of you and we truly appreciate all of the love and support as we move through this time of grief in losing such an inspiring artist and beautiful man. We thank you for your understanding of our need for privacy at this time. From his heart to your souls… don’t ever stop rocking!”
Meat Loaf’s Bat Out of Hell is among the 35 best-selling albums in US history, having sold 14 million copies.
Its singles “Two of Three Ain’t Bad” and “Paradise by the Dashboard Light”, which peaked at No 11 and No 39 on the Billboard Hot 100, respectively, were both certified platinum in 2018.
Meat Loaf all but stole the 1975 film version of the stage musical as Eddie, a wild and wildly unlucky ex-delivery boy who belts out the hard-rocking “Hot Patootie” before meeting a difficult end. The movie, which also starred Susan Sarandon and Tim Curry, has become an all-time cult classic. Its soundtrack also hit the Top 50 and is certified gold. Meat Loaf also played the Eddie role onstage.
The singer starred in 65 movies during his career, most famously appearing in the 1975 film version of The Rocky Horror Picture Show as Eddie, an eccentric and hapless ex-delivery boy who belts out the hit “Hot Patootie”.
The film, which also starred Susan Sarandon and Tim Curry, has become a cult classic.
More to follow.
