Legendary Rock Singer Jack Russell Passes Away at 63
Who Was Jack Russell?
Born in Montebello, California, Jack Russell was the original vocalist for the glam metal act Great White. With a career spanning over four decades, Russell’s incredible voice and exceptional zest for life left an indelible mark on the rock and roll world.
Early Years and Rise to Fame
Russell first started playing with guitarist Mark Kendall in 1977. After serving an 18-month stint in prison, Russell joined Kendall in the band Dante Fox, which would eventually evolve into Great White. The band released its self-titled debut album in 1984, with sophomore release "Shot in the Dark" arriving in 1986. Although neither LP garnered much mainstream attention, the group earned a devoted fanbase on the road, opening for popular acts such as Judas Priest, Whitesnake, and Kiss.
Commercial Success and Tragedy
Things took off with Great White’s third album, 1987’s "Once Bitten…". The LP’s singles, "Rock Me" and "Save Your Love", became rock radio hits. By ’88, "Once Bitten…" was certified platinum, and the band found itself on tour with the likes of Guns N’ Roses and Twisted Sister. Great White’s commercial peak came with 1989’s "…Twice Shy". The album featured their biggest hit, a cover of Ian Hunter’s "Once Bitten, Twice Shy". The rendition peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and helped "…Twice Shy" sell more than 2 million copies.
Personal Struggles and Later Years
Great White continued to steadily release material, but the group’s popularity waned in the ’90s. Russell took some time away from the band to release his debut solo album in 1996. By 2001, Great White had officially broken up. After touring under his own name for some time, Russell began to perform as Jack Russell’s Great White. The band notoriously became part of history in 2003 when, during a performance at The Station nightclub in Rhode Island, pyrotechnics ignited fire in the venue. The tragedy killed 100 people and injured 230 others.
Reunion and Later Years
Great White and Russell reunited in 2006, but in 2009 the singer began to suffer ongoing health problems, compounded further by addiction issues. His final album with the band, "Rising", was released the same year. Russell exited the group and later sued his former band over the Great White name. An agreement was eventually reached wherein Great White could continue under its name, while Russell could once again tour as Jack Russell’s Great White.
Retirement and Final Years
Most recently, Russell announced he was retiring from touring in July 2024 following a diagnosis of Lewy body dementia (LBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA). "Words cannot express my gratitude for the many years of memories, love and support," the rocker said at the time. "Thank you for letting me live my dreams. You have made my life a wonder."
Conclusion
Jack Russell’s passing leaves a void in the rock and roll world, but his legacy will forever thrive. With his incredible voice, exceptional zest for life, and unshakeable contribution to rock and roll, Russell will be remembered as a true rock icon.
FAQs
Q: What was Jack Russell’s age at the time of his passing?
A: Jack Russell was 63 years old at the time of his passing.
Q: What was the cause of Jack Russell’s death?
A: The cause of Jack Russell’s death was not publicly disclosed.
Q: What was the name of Jack Russell’s band?
A: Jack Russell was the original vocalist for the glam metal act Great White.
Q: What was the name of Great White’s biggest hit single?
A: Great White’s biggest hit single was a cover of Ian Hunter’s "Once Bitten, Twice Shy".
Q: What was the name of Jack Russell’s debut solo album?
A: Jack Russell’s debut solo album was released in 1996.
Q: What was the name of the venue where the 2003 tragedy occurred?
A: The 2003 tragedy occurred at The Station nightclub in Rhode Island.
