Singer Fats Domino dies at age 89

Fats Domino, whose real name was Antoine Domino Jr., died on Tuesday, October 24 at the age of 89. He was so well known as Fats that most people never knew his real name. Interestingly, he wasn't given the nickname because of his size. As a teenager, he played the piano in the style of two other great piano players whose names happened to be "Fats." They were Fats Waller and Fats Pichon.

His daughter announced his death to a local radio station. She indicated that he died peacefully at home in Harvey, Louisiana after a long illness. He was surrounded by his family at the time of his death.

The official confirmation came soon afterward from the coroner's office.

Fats Domino's music

Fats Domino was extremely popular in the 1950s and 1960s with his Rock And Roll music. In fact, he sold more than 65 million records. That was more than anyone during those years except for elvis presley. He was best known for his hit songs, "Blueberry Hill" and "Ain't That A Shame." He was popular among both blacks and whites who used to sing along with his records and dance to his music.

Fats Domino left school at the age of 14 to work in a factory during the day and to play the piano in bars at night. He recorded his first song at the age of 17 in 1949. He confessed he never thought he would become a professional musician.

During his later years, he had become a recluse and was not seen very often. His last public performance was in 2007.

His influence

Since the death, many artists have tweeted condolences to the family. They said how Fats Domino had been a great influence on them as singers and piano players, including New Orleans native Harry Connick Jr.

The younger generation might not be familiar with Fats Domino as a person, but surely they are familiar with his style of music through other artists. Paul McCartney wrote the Beatles song "Lady Madonna" patterned after Fats Domino's style. Elvis Presley once defaulted to and referred to the New Orleans legendary singer and piano player as the real king of rock and roll.

Domino was among the first group of musicians to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. He received many other awards and honors during his musical career. Even though he is dead, his music will live on through others that he influenced. No details have been announced about funeral arrangements for the legendary musician who has gone on to "Blueberry Hill." However, more details will be revealed soon.