By DONNA BALANCIA
Meat Loaf, the larger-than-life rock musician and performer whose Bat Out of Hell album enthralled the world, passed away at 74, according to his social media pages.
Born Marvin Lee Aday, the musician known as Meat Loaf died Thursday night from undisclosed causes. He had been suffering with physical pain caused by back issues for several years.
Meat Loaf’s 1977 debut album Bat Out of Hell is one of the best-selling albums of all time with more than 14 million units sold.
In a statement on social media, Meat Loaf’s family issued the following statement:
“Our hearts are broken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight surrounded by his wife, Deborah, daughters, Pearl and Amanda, and close friends.
“His remarkable career spanned six decades during which he sold more than 100 million albums and starred in more than 65 films, including “Rocky Horror Picture Show” and “Wayne’s World.
“Bat Out of Hell” is one of the top-10 selling albums of all time.
“We know how much he meant to so many of you and we truly appreciate all of the love and support as we move through this time of grief in losing such an inspiring artist and beautiful man.
“We thank you for your understanding of our need for privacy at this time.
“From his heart to your souls…don’t ever stop rocking!”
