According to a family statement presented by his longtime agent Michael Greene, Born Marvin Lee Aday, singer Meat Loaf, has died Thursday.
He was 74 years old. Known for his many hit songs such as “Paradise by The Dashboard Light” and “I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That), the rockstar will be missed by many.�
“Our hearts are broken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight,” the statement said. “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… From his heart to your souls… don’t ever stop rocking!”
The family gave no cause of death concerning Aday’s passing. TMZ reported he became ill with COVID-19 after contracting the disease.
Reacting to Aday’s death on social media, fans spoke out.
“I hope paradise is as you remember it from the dashboard light, Meat Loaf,” actor Stephen Fry said on Twitter.
“Bat Out of Hell” was Meat Loaf’s biggest success. In time the album went on to sell more than 40 million copies. His next best-selling album was his 1993 collaboration with songwriter Jim Steinman, “Bat out of Hell II: Back into Hell,” which sold more than 15 million copies and is best known for the Grammy-winning hit “I’d Do Anything for Love: (But I Won’t Do That).”
Steinman passed away in April.
“Bat Out of Hell III: The Monster is Loose,” “Hell in a Handbasket,” and “Braver Than We Are.” are Aday’s other albums.
Originally from Dallas, Aday was raised by his mother, a school teacher, after divorcing his alcoholic father. In high school, Aday got into acting and singing. He was still in high school when his mother died, and he acquired the name, Meat Loaf.
After college, Meat Loaf moved to Los Angeles and was soon the frontman for Meat Loaf Soul.
He has been survived by his wife since 2007, Deborah Gillespie, and daughters Pearl and Amanda Aday.