Hey there, friends. Let’s talk about a true legend in the world of rock 'n' roll: Jerry Lee Lewis. You might have heard some rumors that he passed away on October 26, 2023, in Memphis at the age of 87. Well, hold on to your hats because his rep has confirmed to Closer that Jerry Lee is still alive and kicking. This guy, known for his iconic hit “Great Balls of Fire,” isn’t done yet. Let’s dive into his incredible journey and how he shaped the music we all know and love today.
From Ferriday to Rock 'n' Roll Fame
Born on September 29, 1935, in Ferriday, Louisiana, Jerry Lee Lewis didn’t come from much. His family lived in poverty, but they had big dreams for their boy. When Jerry was just 14, his parents mortgaged their farm to buy him his first piano. Believe it or not, Jerry had already taught himself to play the piano at the tender age of nine. His first public performance came in November 1949, where he played a set of R&B covers at a local car dealership in Ferriday. Talk about starting off with a bang!
Breaking Into the Music Scene
Jerry moved to Nashville in 1955, eager to make a name for himself. He performed at local clubs, but the Grand Ole Opry didn’t see the potential in this fiery young talent. Not one to be discouraged, Jerry headed to Memphis, where Sun Records was revolutionizing the music scene with artists like Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry. Jerry played piano as a session musician for other big names, including Johnny Cash. But it wasn’t until his 1957 debut single, “Whole Lot of Shakin’ Goin’ On,” that Jerry truly broke out from behind the scenes and became a solo act. His wild piano-playing skills quickly earned him the nickname “The Killer,” and he became a star attraction wherever he went.
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The Rise and Controversy
Jerry’s career skyrocketed with the release of “Great Balls of Fire” in November 1957, which became his biggest hit. However, life isn’t always smooth sailing, and Jerry’s career hit a rough patch in 1958. It was revealed that his third wife, Myra Gale Brown, was his 13-year-old cousin once removed at the time of their marriage, when Jerry was just 22. This scandal rocked the music world and caused a lot of backlash for Jerry. Despite this, he continued to make waves in the music industry and went on to marry six more times, with his first marriage taking place in 1952 when he was only 16. His final marriage, in 2012, was to Judy, the ex-wife of Myra Gale Brown’s brother. Jerry fathered six children from his various marriages, but tragically, two of them passed away—his son Steve Allen Lewis drowned in 1962 at the age of three, and Jerry Lee Lewis Jr. died in a Jeep accident in 1973 at the age of 19.
The Story on the Big Screen
In 1989, the movie Great Balls of Fire! was released, shining a spotlight on the early days of Jerry’s career. Actor Dennis Quaid played the role of the piano-playing rocker, and actress Winona Ryder portrayed his controversial wife, Myra. It was a fascinating look into the life of a man who truly lived life to the fullest.
Facing Health Challenges
Even legends face health challenges, and Jerry Lee Lewis was no exception. In March 2019, he suffered a stroke, but his neurologist, Dr. Rohini Bhole, was optimistic about his recovery. "Jerry Lee Lewis is expected to fully recover with aggressive and intensive rehab. From what I have seen thus far, he is heading in the right direction," she said. At the time of his stroke, Jerry had to cancel appearances at the New Orleans Jazz Festival and several other concerts, but his spirit remained undeterred. This man has been through so much and continues to inspire us all.
