Meat Loaf
Singer Meat Loaf, known for his massive hit album Bat Out of Hell, has passed away at the age of 74. Born Marvin Lee Aday, he began his music career in the ’70s in various rock bands and as a stage performer. His first big break came in the cult classic film The Rocky Horror Picture Show, playing the biker character Eddie.
In 1977, Meat Loaf released the epic record Bat Out of Hell, bringing together rock, pop and Broadway theatricality. Teaming with songwriter Jim Steinman (who passed away in 2021), along with producer Todd Rundgren and members of the E Street Band, Meat Loaf earned multiple hits songs, including “You Took The Words Right Out of My Mouth,” “Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad” and most notably, “Paradise By the Dashboard Light.” Bat Out of Hell went on to be one of the best-selling albums of all time, with over 40 million copies worldwide.
In 1993, Meat Loaf and Steinman reunited for Bat Out of Hell II: Back Into Hell, which sold millions of copies and spawned the hit single “I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That).” Over the years, Meat Loaf acted in a wide variety of films and TV shows, most notably Fight Club, playing the tragic character Robert Paulson.
In a statement on Facebook, his family wrote, “Our hearts are broken to announce 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!”
