Fats Domino, New Orleans music legend, dead at 89

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New Orleans resident and legendary pianoman Fats Domino pauses a moments for a photo after meeting with reporters on Aug. 19, 2007.

NEW ORLEANS -- Fats Domino, the amiable rock 'n' roll pioneer whose steady, pounding piano and easy baritone helped change popular music while honoring the traditions of the Crescent City died Tuesday at the age of 89, the Jefferson Parish Coroner says.

The New Orleans musician's daughter said he died peacefully while surrounded by family and friends, CBS affiliate WWL-TV reports.

In appearance, he was no Elvis Presley. He stood 5-feet-5 and weighed more than 200 pounds, with a wide, boyish smile and a haircut as flat as an album cover. But Domino sold more than 110 million records, with hits including "Blueberry Hill," ''Ain't It a Shame" and other standards of rock 'n' roll.

He was one of the first 10 honorees named to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the Rolling Stone Record Guide likened him to Benjamin Franklin, the beloved old man of a revolutionary movement. The magazine listed Domino at No. 25 in its list of "Greatest Recording Artists of All Time." 

His dynamic performance style and warm vocals drew crowds for five decades. One of his show-stopping stunts was playing the piano while standing, throwing his body against it with the beat of the music and bumping the grand piano across the stage. 

After learning of his passing, artists and musicians shared their condolences on social media.

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Comments

Avatar LiLSpeedy -
#1
Growing up in New Orleans and hearing Fats Domino on the radio was as common as eating red beans and rice on Monday. He was a legend in New Orleans and will be missed. My favorite song was "Blueberry Hill". It was a favorite slow-drag dance back in the day. Rest in peace Fats, there's a baby grand waiting on you in heaven.
Avatar eddessaknight -
#2
"AIN'T THAT A SHAME"
Attended one of his touring concerts in NY many blue moons ago
Will diffidently be missed.....
Condolences to family and fans
R.I.P.

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