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