Legendary rock singer, actor and reality star Meat Loaf has died at age 74.
Read the full obit at the Associated Press
Meat Loaf, the heavyweight rock superstar loved by millions for his Bat Out of Hell album and for such theatrical, dark-hearted anthems as “Paradise by the Dashboard Light,” “Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad,” and “I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That),” has died. He was 74.
The singer born Marvin Lee Aday died Thursday, according to a family statement provided by his longtime agent Michael Greene.
No cause of death was given, but Meatloaf had numerous health issued in the last decade or so. The family posted a statement on the late singer’s Facebook page:
“Our hearts are broken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight surrounded by his wife Deborah, daughters Pearl and Amanda and close friends. His amazing career spanned 6 decades that saw him sell over 100 Million albums worldwide and star in over 65 movies, including Fight Club”, Focus, Rocky Horror Picture Show and Wayne’s World. Bat Out of Hell remains one of the top 10 selling albums of all time. 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!”
According to a message posted to his Facebook page in November, Meat Loaf was recording an album to be released soon. “On or about January 4th, we are in the studio,” he wrote. “Playing live, rehearsing live, recording all Basic Tracks on a 24 track analog recorder (old school). Once all tracks, some overdubs and MY VOCALS are (almost done). We will transfer everything to a 48 track digital machine. Then finish the Album. Yes, only 7 new songs but and a BIG BUT. Live tracks from (oh goodness I’m not that old) the 70’s…”
In another Facebook post, Meat Loaf shares that he performed songs on the Mike Huckabee talk show and that while his vocals were strong, he couldn’t stand. “I just can’t walk very well anymore,” he lamented. “I want to do shows, but I will have to stay seated.”
Besides singing and acting, Meat Loaf appeared on several reality shows, including American Idol and NBC’s Celebrity Apprentice in 2011, where he finished in 3rd place.
On the American Idol season 5 finale in 2006, he dueted with Katharine McPhee who went on to take 2nd place behind winner Taylor Hicks. The performance was…something. The two sang “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now.”
Meat Loaf and Katharine McPhee sing “It’s All Coming Back to me Now.”
Also, beginning in 2018, American Idol Season 13 winner Caleb Johnson has been touring with Meat Loaf’s official band, performing a tribute to the singer called “BAT The Music of Meat Loaf” Check him out singing “Paradise by the Dashboard Light”
Caleb Johnson sings “Paradise by the Dashboard Light” with the BAT band
In September, Caleb and Meat Loaf performed together at a BAT concert in Nashville. “It was an absolute honor getting to share the stage and sing with one of my musical heroes MEAT LOAF last night in Nashville TN!!” Caleb worote. “His iconic album Bat Out Of Hell changed my life when I first heard it back when I was 15 years old ! It’s easily a top 5 favorite album for me! This man is a rock legend!!…Will never forget this night !!”
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Meat Loaf’s memorable Rocky Horror Picture Show performance
Many fans encountered Meat Loaf for the first time in the 1075 cult classic, Rocky Horror Picture Show. Watch his unforgettable performance of “Hot Patootie Bless My Soul.” Poor Meat’s demise was quick. “MEATLOAF AGAIN!”
Meat Loaf sing Hot Patootie Bless My Soul
Bat out of Hell, an Instant Classic
Meat Loaf’s debut album, Bat Out of Hell, produced by Todd Rundgren and released in 1977 is a classic, and set the tone for the his career. The album’s operatic rock songs written by Jim Steinman, who died in April, set the tone for Meat Loaf’s career and became instant classics.
Meat Loaf – Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad
Meat Loaf rocking a power ballad.
Meat Loaf – Paradise by the Dashboard Light
That baseball analogy. The female singer in the video is Karla DeVito. But she’s lip-synching to Ellen Foley’s vocals. DeVito performed the song with Meat Loaf on the BAT tour.
