Meat Loaf, the rock star behind one of the best-selling albums in history, has died.
Born Marvin Lee Aday, Meat Loaf is most well-known for his Bat Out of Hell trilogy of albums. The first album in the trilogy, Bat Out of Hell, is one of the best-selling albums of all time.
In fact, only three albums rank above Bat Out of Hell. They are the soundtrack from The Bodyguard, AC/DC’s Back in Black, and Michael Jackson’s Thriller.
The second album in the Bat Out of Hell trilogy featured the song “I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That).” The song led Meat Loaf to a win in the Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance category at the Grammy Awards.
Some of Meat Loaf’s other popular songs were “Paradise by the Dashboard Light,” “Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad,” and “Rock and Roll Dreams Come Through.”
Meat Loaf was also known for his many appearances in movies and television shows. He famously played Eddie in 1975’s The Rocky Horror Picture Show and portrayed Bob Paulson in 1999’s Fight Club.
Health issues plagued Meat Loaf for quite some time. In November 2021, he informed his fans he had four back surgeries in recent years. But he still had plans to return to the studio this year.
Sadly, Meat Loaf’s family released a statement on his official Facebook page on Friday morning (January 21) to announce he had passed away. He was 74 years old:
“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,” the statement read.
No cause of death was mentioned in the statement.
The family went on to thank fans for respecting their privacy during this tough 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!“
You can read the full statement below.
Our hearts and prayers go out to Meat Loaf’s wife and daughters as they mourn their loss. May he rest in peace.