Jerry Lee Lewis at Memorial Auditorium in 1970
Rock a Billy singer and entertainer Jerry Lee Lewis died Friday at his home in Desoto County, Mississippi. His death was announced by his publicist, Zach Farnum who gave no cause.
Lewis was a rock and roll pioneer in the 1950’s whose major hits included “Great Balls of Fire” and “Whole lot of Shakin” Going On.”
According to “Hello Chattanooga” by David Carroll, Lewis performed in Chattanooga more than a dozen times.
One of his earliest performances was for a WDXB Radio dance on February 24, 1959.
Lewis did several shows at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium including a WDOD “Shower of Stars” June 26, 1970.
In the early 60’s Lewis transitioned into country music with Hank Williams “Cold Cold Heart.”
Billboard magazine said during his career, Lewis recorded over 65 songs that made the country charts. His top 10 country songs included; “What Made Milwaukee Famous,” “To make Love Sweeter,” “Chantilly Lace,” “Middle Age Crazy,” and “Over the Rainbow.”
Lewis' early career was documented in the 1989 movie, “Great Balls of Fire.”
He was recently inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame but could not attend the induction ceremony because of being hospitalized.
When learning of Lewis’ death, Beatles drummer Ringo Starr said, “God Bless Jerry Lee Lewis, peace and love to all his family.”