TMZ falsely reported Wednesday afternoon that rock ‘n’ roll music icon Jerry Lee Lewis, singer of “Great Balls of Fire”, died at his home in Memphis, Tennessee.
Lewis, 87, is a legendary piano player known for delivering electrifying performances, where he would sometimes play with his feet.
“Jerry Lee Lewis is not dead … as we previously reported,” TMZ reported. “We’re told the rock n’ roll legend is alive, living in Memphis. Earlier today we were told by someone claiming to be Lewis’ rep that he had passed. That turned out not to be the case.”
“TMZ regrets the error,” the publication added.
“He’s alive,” a representative for Lewis said in a statement. “TMZ reported erroneously off of a bulls–t anonymous tip.”
Lewis’ sister, Linda Gail Lewis, posted to Facebook Tuesday: “Please pray for my dear brother, he’s going thru a hard time and needs our prayers and positive thoughts right now. Thank you so much.”
Known as “The Killer,” some of Lewis’ top hits included “Great Balls of Fire,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” “High School Confidential,” “Mean Woman Blues,” “Breathless,” “Boogie Woogie Country Man,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “John Henry,” “Lovin’ Up a Storm,” “Livin’ Lovin’ Wreck,” and “I’m on Fire.”
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