Fats Domino Remembered

On the latest episode of Music Worth Buying, TJR and Robert Kinsler celebrate the life and music of Fats Domino, who died at the age of 89 on Tuesday, October 24, 2017. In addition to discussing his greatest hits, they also champion a 2007 tribute to Fats Domino titled Goin' Home featuring a slew of music greats (John Lennon, Tom Petty, Bonnie Raitt, Robert Plant and more) as well as a terrific live album featuring a Fats Domino concert recorded in 1973 and released commercially in October of 2015 (the aptly-titled Thrillin' In Philly! Live 1973).




Here is a statement that appeared on the official Fats Domino Facebook page:

Statement from the children of Antoine “Fats” Domino, Jr.
Dated: October 25, 2017

We are all touched by the outpouring of love and tribute for our father. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by those he loved and those who loved him. His music reached across all boundaries and carried him to all corners of the world.

…Then I rock myself to sleep
Prayin’ that I am here to keep
Then I ride the rising sun
Gee ain’t I being a lucky one
“Rising Sun”(Domino) ©1960 EMI Unart Catalog, Inc.

We thank you for allowing us to grieve privately during this difficult time. Funeral arrangements are pending.

RECORDING ACADEMY™ Statement regarding Fats Domino issued October 25, 2017
 
Our Recording Academy™ family is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of rock and roll visionary Fats Domino. In a career spanning more than five decades, Domino charmed audiences with his smooth vocals, boogie-woogie piano style, and unwavering humility. He is widely recognized for influencing artists across all genres, having a number of his hits covered by music industry giants, including John Lennon, Cheap Trick, and Led Zeppelin. In 1987, Domino received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy, our formal salute to his remarkable contributions to rock history. He will be greatly missed, but remembered for paving the way for rock and roll. Our condolences go out to Domino’s family, friends, and collaborators during this difficult time.  
 
Neil Portnow
President/CEO
Recording Academy


"Rest in peace Fats Domino, the great rock ’n’ roll pianist and singer who thrilled us in our early days in Liverpool. His hit records like ‘Ain’t That A Shame’, ‘Blueberry Hill’, ‘I’m In Love Again’ and many others introduced us to the sounds of New Orleans rock ‘n’ roll. We were excited to meet Fats once in his home town of New Orleans. He was wearing a huge star spangled diamond encrusted watch which was our first encounter with bling! His voice, piano playing and musical style was a huge influence on us and his appearance in the film ‘The Girl Can’t Help It’ was truly magnificent. As one of my favourite rock ‘n’ roll singers, I will remember him fondly and always think of him with that twinkle in his eye. I read that he had eight children. He himself was named Antoine. His kids were named Antoine III, Anatole, Andre, Antonio, Antoinette, Andrea, Anola and Adonica. Now that is pure Fats!" - Paul 
Statement from Paul McCartney posted October 26, 2017

TWITTER REACTS

Fats Domino was one of the first 10 honorees named to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (and he was inducted into the Rock Hall in 1986) and his death at the age of 89 has been followed by countless tributes by music greats.

Photo © Curt Gunther

Fats Domino - an inspiration to the band and a music legend.
Rest In Peace.
@TheBeatles 

RIP Fats Domino legend and innovator of rock n' roll - His legacy remains forever in his music.
@TheJonathanCain

Before Elvis, Jerry Lee & Chuck (Berry) that was Fats. His sweet voice, rolling piano & charisma made him a star & first member of the Rock Hall.
@RockHall
(Rock and Roll Hall of Fame)



RIP Fats Domino
@BillyJoel

Words fail me in this moment of deep heartache and sadness. We have lost a legend. One of my heroes. New Orleans' Fats Domino is dead.
@WendellPierce

His groove will always be foremost in my body and soul. His was the "cool" of the New Orleans music that first lit my fire. Bon voyage Fats.
@MickeyHart

Godspeed, Fats Domino. RIP
@jackie_greene

So sad to hear the passing of Fats Domino. A true rock and roll legend. RIP
@YoungDubliners

RIP fats domino... you helped pave the way for New Orleans piano players... see you on top of that Blueberry Hill in the sky
@HarryConnickJr

RIP #FatsDomino, 1950s-60s singer/pianist/pop hitmaker. #BlueMonday #AintThatAShame #NewOrleans #BlueberryHill
@GeorgeAPaul