Iconic rock ‘n’ roll guitarist and singer-songwriter Chuck Berry has passed away at age 90 after decades of performing.
Born Charles Edward Anderson Berry on October 18, 1926, Chuck rocketed to fame in the late 1950s after being signed by Chess Records. In that time he wrote and performed some of the most popular songs in rock ‘n’ roll history, among them “Maybellene,” “Roll Over Beethoven,” and “Johnny B. Goode.”
Though his high-energy performances were influenced by rhythm-and-blues legend T-Bone Walker, Chuck was able to refine the style into his own unique brand of showmanship. The performer is perhaps most famously remembered for his duck walk dance technique across the stage.
The St. Louis, Missouri, native found his passion for music at an early age, making his debut in 1941 while still in high school.
Unfortunately, he also had a habit for running into trouble with the law: He was sentenced to stay at the Intermediate Reformatory for Young Men in Algoa, Missouri, in 1944.
However, it was there that Chuck formed his first group, a quartet that became so popular in the facility that they were given permission to take leave for shows around town. From those humble beginnings, he went on to not only find massive success in his own career, but inspire other legends like Elvis Presley, the Beatles’ John Lennon, and the Rolling Stones’ Keith Richards.
Chuck continued to perform throughout the decades. He recently recorded his final album, which is set to be released sometime this year.
Take a look below to see one of Chuck Berry’s incredible live performances.
And be sure to Liked Video his memory with your loved ones.
