Jack Russell, Lead Singer of Great White, Dies at 63
Jack Russell, the iconic lead singer of the 1980s hard rock band Great White, has passed away at the age of 63. The cause of death was announced as Lewy body dementia and multiple system atrophy by K.L. Doty, the author of Mr. Russell’s autobiography.
Early Life and Career
Born on December 5, 1960, in Montebello, California, Jack Patrick Russell grew up in Whittier, California. He dropped out of high school to pursue his passion for music. Russell co-founded Great White with guitarist Mark Kendall, originally under the name Dante Fox, in the early 1980s. The band began playing in small clubs in Southern California and later changed its name to Great White in 1984.
Success and Hiatus
Great White’s first big hit, "Rock Me," landed the No. 60 spot on the Billboard Top 100 Chart in 1987. The band’s third album, featuring its biggest hit, "Once Bitten Twice Shy," reached No. 5 in 1989 and earned the band a 1990 Grammy nomination. Russell briefly left Great White in 1996 to build a solo career but returned in 1999. By 2001, the band had disbanded.
Station Nightclub Fire
In 2002, Russell and Kendall formed a new group, Jack Russell’s Great White, with three new musicians. In February 2003, the band performed at the Station Nightclub in West Warwick, Rhode Island, where a deadly fire broke out, killing 100 people and leaving 230 injured. The fire was caused by pyrotechnics igniting highly flammable soundproofing foam on the stage. Russell was not charged in connection with the fire, but the band agreed to pay a $1 million settlement.
Later Years and Retirement
After the Station Nightclub fire, Great White reunited in 2007 but disbanded again shortly after. Russell continued to make music with Jack Russell’s Great White, announcing his retirement in July due to health problems. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Russell wrote, "I am unable to perform at the level I desire and at the level you deserve. Words cannot express my gratitude for the many years of memories, love, and support."
Personal Life
Russell is survived by his wife, Heather Ann Russell, and his son, Matthew Hucko.
Conclusion
Jack Russell’s legacy as the lead singer of Great White will be remembered for his iconic voice, energetic stage presence, and memorable hits. His untimely passing due to Lewy body dementia and multiple system atrophy serves as a reminder of the importance of health and wellness. Russell’s music will continue to inspire and entertain fans for generations to come.
FAQs
Q: What was the cause of Jack Russell’s death?
A: Jack Russell’s death was caused by Lewy body dementia and multiple system atrophy.
Q: What was the Station Nightclub fire?
A: The Station Nightclub fire was a deadly fire that broke out on February 20, 2003, during a performance by Great White at the Station Nightclub in West Warwick, Rhode Island. The fire killed 100 people and left 230 injured.
Q: Was Jack Russell charged in connection with the Station Nightclub fire?
A: No, Jack Russell was not charged in connection with the Station Nightclub fire.
Q: What was the settlement amount paid by Great White in connection with the Station Nightclub fire?
A: Great White agreed to pay a $1 million settlement in connection with the Station Nightclub fire.
Q: Why did Jack Russell retire from music?
A: Jack Russell retired from music due to health problems.
