Statement from Mayor Landrieu on Passing of
Antoine “Fats”
Domino, Jr.
NEW ORLEANS – Today, Mayor Mitch Landrieu issued the
following statement about the passing of music legend Antoine “Fats” Domino,
Jr., who died today at the age of 89:
“I am saddened at the passing of music legend and iconic New
Orleanian Fats Domino. He was a world-class musician, known for his shaping of
rock-n-roll as we know it. He was one of the most
beloved pianists and singer-songwriters to come out of New Orleans. He
paved the way musicians of all genres who would come behind him. On behalf of
the people of New Orleans, I am eternally grateful for his life and legacy.
Fats Domino added to New Orleans’ standing in the world, and what people know
and appreciate about New Orleans.
"His cover of “Blueberry Hill” is ranked by Rolling Stone
magazine among the top 100 greatest songs of all time, a song that entered the
Grammy Hall of Fame decades after its recording. He
honored his city with the song ‘Walking to New Orleans’ in the 1960s. Fats
was among the first musicians to be inducted in the Rock in Roll Hall of Fame.
He achieved the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1987. Former President
Bill Clinton awarded Fats a National Medal of Arts. He was honored as one of
the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time by Rolling Stone Magazine. In 2015,
another one of his song’s, ‘The Fat Man’, was inducted into the Grammy Hall of
Fame.
"I was honored to present Fats with the 2015 New Orleans
Legends Award because of his influence in music across multiple eras and
presence at the birth of rock-n-roll.
"Though he was a music icon known around the world, he always
remained true to his New Orleans roots. He was a lifelong resident of the Lower
Ninth Ward until he lost his home in Hurricane Katrina. His last live
performance was given in New Orleans at Tipitina’s in 2007.
"For a city known for its incredible, talented musicians,
Fats Domino ranked among the all-time greats. We have lost an incredible music
and New Orleans icon. My thoughts and prayers are with his family in this tough
time, and he will be sorely missed.”
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