Fats Domino, rock and roll legend, dies aged 89

Fats Domino, one of the most influential rock and roll stars of the 1950s and '60s, has died aged 89.

The US rock and roll performer - real name Antoine Domino Jr - was best known for his songs Blueberry Hill and Ain't That A Shame.

MORE: Fats Domino's complete Official Chart history

A medical examiner from New Orleans coroner's office confirmed the death, which was earlier announced by Domino's daughter on a local television station.

New Orleans-born Fats Domino has reportedly sold more than 65 million records worldwide, outselling every '50s rock and roll act except Elvis Presley.

His debut single, The Fat Man, is cited by many as the first ever rock and roll record.

He was one of the first ever inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986, though he never formally accepted it as he did not leave New Orleans in his later life.

Fats Domino was given his famous nickname by his bandleader Bill Diamond, who said the star's technique reminded him of two other notable piano players, Fats Waller and Fats Pichon.

See a selection of tributes from his friends and famous admirers below, including Samuel L Jackson and fellow New Orleans musician Harry Connick Jr.

I found My Thrill on " Blueberry Hill"! RIP Fats Domino

— Samuel L. Jackson (@SamuelLJackson) October 25, 2017

RIP fats domino... you helped pave the way for new orleans piano players... see you on top of that blueberry hill in the sky ❤️🙏🏼❤️

— Harry Connick Jr (@HarryConnickJR) October 25, 2017

Words fail me in this moment of deep heartache and sadness. We have lost a legend. One of my heroes. New Orleans’ Fats Domino is dead. pic.twitter.com/HZNbQRI889

— Wendell Pierce (@WendellPierce) October 25, 2017

Was listening to Fats Domino recently, very sad to hear of his passing and so glad of the work he leaves behind.

— Hozier (@Hozier) October 25, 2017

Article image: Rex