American pianist, singer, and songwriter (1935-2022). Born in Ferriday, Louisiana. Often referred to as "the Killer." One of the most influential figures in the development of rock and roll, with a piano-pounding performance style that paralleled the early Elvis Presley.
Released over 40 studio albums between Jerry Lee Lewis (1958) and Mean Old Man (2010). Best-known singles include "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On" and "Great Balls of Fire" (1957). Career-derailing 1958 scandal over his marriage to his 13-year-old cousin Myra Gale Brown effectively ended his rock and roll career; he successfully pivoted to country music in the late 1960s. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986.
