Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Jerry Lee Lewis: Great Balls of Fire singer in hospital after suffering minor stroke

The rock pioneer is expected to make a full recovery

Jacob Stolworthy
Saturday 02 March 2019 11:29 GMT
Comments
Jerry Lee Lewis performing at Stagecoach California's Country Music Festival at the Empire Polo Club in April 2017
Jerry Lee Lewis performing at Stagecoach California's Country Music Festival at the Empire Polo Club in April 2017

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Jerry Lee Lewis is recovering after suffering a minor stroke.

The 83-year-old rock and roll musician is surrounded by his family in Memphis and is expected to make a full recovery, his representative said.

Lewis, also known as The Killer, began his career in the 1950s and is known for hits including “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On”, “High School Confidential” and “Great Balls Of Fire”

In a statement, his rep, Zach Farnum, added it is unlikely that Lewis’s upcoming performance at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in May will be cancelled.

He added: “The Killer looks forward to getting back into the studio soon to record a Gospel record and on the road performing live for his fans. His family requests privacy at this time. Well-wishes and prayers are greatly appreciated.”

Born in Louisiana, Lewis began his career at the famous Sun Records, which also played a key part in the careers of Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash.

Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events

Lewis is a Grammy winner and a Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame inductee and has been described as “rock & roll’s first great wild man”.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in