Saturday, March 18, 2017

Chuck Berry, 1926-2017


Chuck Berry, one of the founders of Rock & Roll, died today at age 90 at his home in St. Charles County, MO. It's impossible to overemphasize the influence Berry had on music of the past half- century, but suffice it to say his unique and groundbreaking style of uptempo rhythm and blues, mixed with country twang, and featuring his slashing guitar riffs changed the history of music, and broke down racial barriers in the process. But even in his 90th year, Berry wasn't finished:
The rock legend had announced in October, on his 90th birthday that he was releasing a new album.  
The album, titled "Chuck," was to debut in 2017. It's his first new album in 38 years. [snip] 
It's a fitting way for the musician, best known for his unforgettable tunes including "Johnny B. Goode," "Maybellene," "Roll Over Beethoven," "Sweet Little Sixteen," "School Days," "Rock and Roll Music," "Back in the U.S.A." and "Memphis, Tennessee," to mark his birthday. With his catchy melodies, witty lyrics and trademark guitar riffs, Berry has had an immeasurable impact on rock music. 
He directly influenced the early music of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys and The Kinks. Not surprisingly, Berry was among the first group of performers inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. 
Rest in peace, and enjoy your Promised Land.



BONUS: A few admirers --







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