The man, the myth, the legend; the larger-than-life rocker known professionally as Meat Loaf, born Marvin Lee Aday, was added to the recent string of public figures taken from this world too soon. The singer and actor passed away on Jan. 20, confirmed by a Facebook post via his verified account. He was 74 years old. 

“Our hearts are broken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight surrounded by his wife Deborah, daughters Pearl and Amanda and close friends.” The post read, “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. From his heart to your souls… don’t ever stop rocking!” 

His official cause of death has not been made public. It’s important to note that “sources with knowledge” told TMZ Meat Loaf had fallen “seriously ill with COVID” only a week before his death. That being said, no person of proper authority has thus confirmed or denied the official cause. 

Truly like a bat out of hell, Meat Loaf took the music scene on a wild ride in his prime. His 1977 debut album “Bat Out of Hell” remains in the top 10 best-selling albums of all time. Despite the mere seven-track duration, the album racked up over 43 million copies sold worldwide, while simultaneously being certified 14x platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). 

The late composer Jim Steinman was the driving force behind Meat Loaf’s grandiose success. Steinman was responsible for all the songwriting on “Bat Out of Hell’, an album derived from a musical he wrote in 1974 titled Neverland. The pair felt that these showtunes were “exceptional,” prompting Steinman to develop them into an album fit for the unique operatic vocals of Meat Loaf.  

A discography like none other, Meat Loaf was the powerhouse behind theatrical rock ballads such as “You Took the Words Right Out of My Mouth (Hot Summer)”, and “I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That)”. Other hits like “Paradise By the Dashboard Light” and “All Revved Up with No Place to Go” are reigning singalong staples known and loved by all generations. 

Meat Loaf’s success didn’t stop with his music career. Also well known for his work in cinema, he can be recognized as Tiny in “Wayne’s World”, Eddie in “The Rocky Horror Picture Show”, and Bob in “Fight Club”. His acting performances always promised hilarity, passion, and versatile talent. A presence like no other, he couldn’t help but take hold of viewers’ attention while on-screen. 

Meat Loaf was indeed a performer first and a singer second. He firstly understood how to captivate an audience, and his powerful voice was the icing on the cake. He had an extensive background in musical theater- and while this was evident through his vocals- his expressional acting often stole the spotlight, even in his music videos and live performances. 

The legacy of Meat Loaf will forever live on etched into the rock ‘n’ roll history books. His songs continue to be cherished, and the effort he put into all of his work is undeniable. Meat Loaf commanded the stage, and it’s indisputable that he was destined for the life he led. 

The world will continue to grieve the loss of one of the greats. Meat Loaf is surely rocking and rolling up above, enjoying the harvest of his legacy. While he isn’t here in person, he’ll forever be here in spirit. Legends will never die.

Just like the statement announcing his death read, “From his heart to your souls… don’t ever stop rocking!”