‘Your songs lit up my life’: Rock legend Jerry Lee Lewis remembered
News of the death of first generation rock ’n’ roll star Jerry Lee Lewis brought an outpouring from across the cultural landscape, with fellow musicians, authors, actors and even a former president of the United States weighing in on the loss and legacy of the Rock ’n’ Roll and Country Music Hall of Famer.
Lewis died Friday at his home in Desoto County. He was 87.
Fellow piano man Elton John hailed Lewis’ influence on social media, posting a photo of himself and the musician, and noting that “Without Jerry Lee Lewis, I wouldn’t have become who I am today,” John said. “He was groundbreaking and exciting, and he pulverized the piano. A brilliant singer too. Thank you for your trailblazing inspiration and all the rock ‘n’ roll memories.”
John Fogerty, founder of Creedence Clearwater Revival, took to Twitter to eulogize Lewis noting that he was “hugely influenced by his records and live performances which were always full of fire and inspiration! No one could touch him! God Bless you, Jerry Lee.”
Rolling Stones singer Mick Jagger also posted a vintage snap of himself with Lewis, captioning it, “God bless you Jerry Lee. Your songs lit up my life!”
Jagger’s Stones partner, guitarist Keith Richards, posted video of himself playing “Whole Lotta Shaking” with Lewis from a 1983 tribute. “Goodbye to the Killer, RIP,” wrote Richards.
Rod Stewart spoke for a generation of musicians from the U.K., saying Lewis “had an extraordinary influence on all us early British rockers. Bless you, Jerry. Rest in peace. We will never ever forget you.”
Actor Dennis Quaid, who portrayed Lewis in the 1989 biopic “Great Balls of Fire,” posted an image of himself and the singer on Instagram, writing, “Jerry Lee Lewis was a Christian, an American icon and the greatest piano player in the world. People will be listening to ‘Great Balls of Fire’ and ‘Whole Lot of Shakin’ 500 years from now. I will miss him. God bless you Jerry Lee.”
Horror author Stephen King was also among those to salute Lewis on social media. “The Killer has gone,” wrote King. “He could play that piano, boy. Think I gotta play me some Lewis Boogie.”
Even former President Donald Trump weighed in on Lewis’ death. Trump wrote that “Jerry Lee Lewis was beloved by everyone, a real bundle of talent, energy, and everything else necessary to be a star…he will be missed!”