Jack Russell, Great White Singer and Survivor of Infamous Nightclub Fire, Dies Aged 63

Jack Russell, the iconic vocalist of the 1980s hair metal band Great White, passed away on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at the age of 63.

He had been battling multiple system atrophy and Lewy body dementia. Last month, Russell announced his retirement from touring, acknowledging that his health no longer allowed him to perform at the level he wished.

He expressed deep gratitude for the years of memories, love, and support from his fans.

Russell’s family remembered him fondly, highlighting his sense of humor, passion for life, and significant impact on rock and roll, where his legacy will continue to thrive.

Great White, founded in Los Angeles in 1977, became a staple of the mid-1980s metal scene with their hit albums Once Bitten and …Twice Shy.

Songs like Rock Me and Once Bitten, Twice Shy were frequently featured on MTV, solidifying the band’s place in music history.

Russell initially left the band in 1996 but rejoined in 2001, leading the group under the name Jack Russell’s Great White.

Tragically, Great White was involved in the 2003 Station nightclub fire, where a pyrotechnics display during their performance ignited a fire that claimed 100 lives and injured 230 others.

This remains the deadliest fireworks-related accident in U.S. history.

Russell is survived by his wife, Heather Ann Russell, and his son, Matthew Hucko. A public memorial will be held at a later date.