Meat Loaf tributes pour in

ENTERTAINERS around the world paid tribute to rock star Meat Loaf after his family announced that he died on Thursday, hailing him as a “legend”, a “tremendous talent” and a “softie”.

“What a tremendous talent gone way too soon,” tweeted country singer Travis Tritt. “He was also one of the nicest people anyone could ever want to know. This world is a little less bright without him in it. #RIPMeat.”

Meat Loaf, whose given name was Marvin Lee Aday, died at 74 surrounded by his wife, daughters and close friends. The cause was not disclosed.

“We know how much he meant to so many of you and we truly appreciate all of the love and support as we move through this time of grief in losing such an inspiring artist and beautiful man,” a statement on his official Facebook page said.

In his six-decade career, Meat Loaf sold more than 100 million albums worldwide. His 1977 breakthrough, Bat Out of Hell, made him a household name.

Among those sending testimonials for Meat Loaf on Friday was American actress Marlee Matlin, who said she was heartbroken.

“He was passionate. A softie. Kind. And talented as hell. And he was my friend,” Matlin wrote.

Theatrical composer Andrew Lloyd Webber noted: “The vaults of heaven will be ringing with rock.” |