Jack Russell, the lead singer of rock band Great White who survived a devastating fire during a concert in 2003, died Thursday at age 63.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Jack Patrick Russell,” read a statement posted to Russell’s Instagram account, adding that the singer “passed peacefully” surrounded by his wife, son, cousin and two friends.
On July 17, Russell announced his retirement from Great White, explaining that he had been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia and multiple system atrophy, which causes loss of coordination, balance and changes in speech.
“It is with great sadness that I must announce my retirement from touring,” the singer said. “Because my recent diagnosis with Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) and Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) has prevented me from performing at the level I would like to perform and that you would like to perform at.”
“Words cannot express how grateful I am for all the memories, love and support over the years,” Russell added. “Thank you for making my dream come true. You have made my life amazing.”
Great White is best known for hits such as “Once Bitten Twice Shy”, which peaked at number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in August 1989, “The Angel Song”, which reached number 30 on the chart in December 1989, and “Rock Me”, the band’s first major hit which reached number 60 on the charts in 1987.
Great White’s other hits include “Call It Rock and Roll”, which peaked at number 53 on the charts in 1991, and “Save Your Love”, which reached number 57 on the Billboard charts in 1988.
The band’s 1989 album, “…Twice Shy,” ultimately sold approximately 2 million copies.
In 2007, Great White reformed with its original lineup to celebrate its 25th anniversary. The band has since released a new studio album and is touring this summer.
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The great white singer is also known for surviving the deadliest concert fire in U.S. history, which killed 100 people, including the band’s guitarist, Ty Longley.
In 2003, Russell was performing at The Station nightclub in Rhode Island when the band’s fireworks caused a fire.
Great White held a benefit concert to raise money for the survivors who were severely burned after the concert venue fire and for the families of those who died. The band also agreed to pay a $1 million settlement.
“It was a terrible tragedy,” Russell said. said The Roanoke Times in 2010. “I wish I could go back in time and erase it.”
“I wish there was a way to deal with it,” he added. “It was something that was never expected. You can’t predict it. You just have to bounce back and move on. You just have to take what life gives you.”
On Thursday, Poison lead singer Bret Michaels responded to Russell’s death, writing in a post on X, “To my friend Jack Russell. Had an incredible voice. Rest in peace.”
My friend Jack Russell had a wonderful voice. Rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/1a7FeR0Tis
— Bret Michaels (@bretmichaels) August 16, 2024
“May Jack Russell rest in peace. This man was slandered by circumstances beyond his control and is tormented by his memory. He was not a bad person. And he was a really good singer!” wrote Twisted Sisters singer Dee Snider.
May Jack Russell rest in peace. This man was slandered by circumstances beyond his control and is tormented by the memory. He was not a bad man. And he was a really good singer! pic.twitter.com/M2YGiD1HqT
— Dee Snider 🇺🇸🎤 (@deesnider) August 16, 2024
“So sad to hear that our good friend Jack Russell has passed away,” Cinderella drummer Fred Cooley responded. “The world has lost one of the nicest guys in the business and one of the greatest voices to ever sing on radio in the 80’s. Rest in peace Captain.”
I heard that my good friend Jack Russell has passed away. I am so sad. Jack and I had so many great adventures over the years, both on the water and overseas. The world has lost one of the nicest guys in the business and one of the best voices that sailed the skies in the 80’s. May he rest in peace, Captain.
— Fred Coury (@fredcoury) August 16, 2024
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