by Dolapo Adelana
Charles Edward Anderson “Chuck” Berry, an American guitarist, singer and songwriter and one of the pioneers of rock and roll music has died, aged 90.
His death was announced in a statement on his website. The statement said, “We are deeply saddened to announce that Chuck Berry – beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather – passed away at his home today at the age of 90. Though his health had deteriorated recently, he spent his last days at home surrounded by the love of his family and friends. The Berry family asks that you respect their privacy during this difficult time.”
His songs “Maybellene” (1955), “Roll Over Beethoven” (1956), “Rock and Roll Music” (1957) and “Johnny B. Goode” (1958), were ways in which Berry helped to refine and develope rhythm and blues into the major elements that made rock and roll distinctive.
Tributes have been pouring in for the legend by roll ‘n’ roll musicians.
I am so sad to hear of Chuck Berry's passing. I want to thank him for all the inspirational music he gave to us. 1/3 pic.twitter.com/9zQbH5bo9V
— Mick Jagger (@MickJagger) March 18, 2017
He lit up our teenage years, and blew life into our dreams of being musicians and performers. 2/3 #ChuckBerry
— Mick Jagger (@MickJagger) March 18, 2017
His lyrics shone above others & threw a strange light on the American dream. Chuck you were amazing&your music is engraved inside us forever
— Mick Jagger (@MickJagger) March 18, 2017
Just let me hear some of that rock 'n' roll music any old way you use it I am playing I'm talking about you. God bless Chuck Berry Chuck ? pic.twitter.com/XmwmaGzGpL
— #RingoStarr (@ringostarrmusic) March 18, 2017
"One of my big lights has gone out.”
– Keith, 3/18/17 pic.twitter.com/I86dHlvN5W— Keith Richards (@officialKeef) March 19, 2017
Chuck Berry was rock's greatest practitioner, guitarist, and the greatest pure rock 'n' roll writer who ever lived.
— Bruce Springsteen (@springsteen) March 18, 2017
Dolapo is a writer and journalist who works with YNaija. He has interests in Christianity, politics and sports.
What a life well spent