STREAM EXCLUSIVE ORIGINALS

Good Night, Legend: Celebrities React To The Death Of Fats Domino

The blues icon died in his home at 89.

Fats Domino, the iconic New Orleans blues singer, passed away at 89 on Tuesday in his home in Harvey, Louisiana. 

Through his career, Domino had over three dozen Top 40 hits and sold 65 million singles, with 23 gold records worldwide. He also inspired musicians like Elvis Presley and the Beatles. As his mainstream appeal grew, he began to break racial barriers with appearances on The Steve Allen Show and The Ed Sullivan Show, bringing his music to millions of living rooms across America.

See more music news with BET Breaks, above.

  • Presley himself credited Domino as the real king of Rock and Roll. When asked about his musical innovations, Domino made it clear that the exciting new style of music had existed for years in Black American communities — far before it hit the mainstream. 

    "Well, what they call rock ’n’ roll now is rhythm and blues," he said. "I’ve been playing it for 15 years in New Orleans.”

    Domino's contributions to music and the culture can't be overestimated. Following the news of his passing, celebrities took to social media to celebrate his life and work.

Latest News

Subscribe for BET Updates

Provide your email address to receive our newsletter.


By clicking Subscribe, you confirm that you have read and agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge our Privacy Policy. You also agree to receive marketing communications, updates, special offers (including partner offers) and other information from BET and the Paramount family of companies. You understand that you can unsubscribe at any time.