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 multiple Grammy winner, born Marvin Lee Aday, died overnight Thursday through Friday with no cause of death disclosed.
A post on his official Facebook page announced the sad news: “We are heartbroken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight with his wife Deborah by his side.
His daughters Pearl and Amanda along with close friends have been with him throughout the past 24 hours…”
“We know how important he was to many of you and we truly appreciate all the love and support you have shown us as we go through this time of grief at losing such an inspiring artist and such a beautiful man.
We appreciate your understanding for our need for privacy at this time.
From his heart to your souls… Never stop rocking!
".
Landmark of American Rock Culture
Rocker with the physique of a trucker on Route 66, Meat Loaf is a monument of American rock culture.
His career has spanned six decades which has seen him sell over 100 million albums worldwide and star in over 65 films including 'Fight Club', 'Rocky Horror Picture Show' and 'Wayne's World'. .
Recently he appeared in the series “Ghosts Wars”.
Although there are several explanations for his stage name, according to the artist's official website, the name "Meat" was first given to him by his father when he was two years old.
His school buddies would later transform him into Meat Loaf
,
thus respecting his official initials, ML
His career took off in California for this native of Texas.
In Los Angeles, he formed his first music group, Meat Loaf Soul.
During the first studio recording, his vocal power was immediately noticed and he was offered three contracts, which he declined.
Meat Loaf Soul begins a series of first parts including that of Van Morrison.
After the separation of his group, he will participate in the musical “Hair”, which will launch his career on a national scale.
Star of “The Rocky Horror Show”
During the winter of 1975, returning from a production work session, Meat Loaf received a phone call asking him to participate in "The Rocky Horror Show" in which he would play the roles of Eddie and Dr. Scott. .
The show's success led to the filming of the eponymous film in which he only played the role of Eddie.
The song "Hot Patootie" which he performs in the film is sometimes part of his live shows.
He will then begin a collaboration with the songwriter Jim Steinman.
It was at this time that he worked with the latter on a piece of bravery, his best-selling album "Bat Out of Hell", some pieces are over 20 minutes.
Meat Loaf's "Bat Out of Hell" is among the 35 best-selling albums in US history, with 14 million copies sold.
In the 1990s, he would still have some success with the melodic rock song, "I'd Do Anything For Love (But I Won't Do That)".