American singer Meat Loaf, known for hits like Bat Out of Hell, has died at the age of 74, his family has announced.
The rock star, whose real name was Michael Lee Aday, has sold millions of albums worldwide.
A post on his official Facebook page said the star’s wife Deborah was at his side.
The statement read: “Our hearts are broken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight with his wife Deborah by his side.
“Daughters Pearl and Amanda and close friends have been with him throughout the last 24 hours.
“His amazing career spanned six decades that saw him sell over 100m 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 ten 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!”
During the first coronavirus lockdown, a Scottish Meat Loaf fan treated his neighbours to a rendition of the rock legend’s hit Bat Out of Hell.
Comedian Janey Godley wrote a tribute to the rocker.
She said: “The first album I bought, wee record shop Shettleston [Road] 1978, I carried it home like a new baby, opened the record player, took off my Donny Osmond LP, placed Meat Loaf on the turntable, dropped the needle and sat back on my single bed to let the huge music wave over my soul.”
Actor and broadcaster Stephen Fry paid tribute to Meat Loaf.
He said in a tweet: “I hope paradise is as you remember it from the dashboard light, Meat Loaf.
“Had a fun time performing a sketch with him on Saturday Live way back in the last century.
“He had the quality of being simultaneously frightening and cuddly, which is rare and rather wonderful.”
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