Former Great White singer Jack Russell, the voice on classics like “Once Bitten, Twice Shy,” “House Of Broken Love,” “Rock Me,” “Save Your Love” and “Lady Red Light,” among others, has passed away. He was 63 years old.
The announcement was made via Russell’s social media. “With tremendous sadness, we announce the loss of our beloved Jack Patrick Russell — father, husband, cousin, uncle, and friend,” the post read.
“Jack passed peacefully in the presence of his wife Heather Ann Russell, son Matthew Hucko, cousin Naomi Breshears Barbor, and dear friends Billy and Cheryl Pawelcik. Details of a public memorial will be announced at a later date. Jack is loved and remembered for his sense of humor, exceptional zest for life, and unshakeable contribution to rock and roll where his legacy will forever thrive. His family asks for privacy at this time.”
Russell announced his retirement from the road last month due to several health issues. Great White was sadly and infamously at the center of the tragic 2003 fire at The Station night club in Rhode Island where 100 people died and another 230 were injured. The band would go on to do several benefit shows for the families of the victims of the tragedy. A heartbreaking documentary on the event, “The Guest List,” was released in 2022, and Russell participated in the film.
Tributes poured in for the late singer after the announcement including from Great White themselves. “Our deepest condolences to the family of Jack Russell,” the band wrote. “We hope they take comfort in knowing Jack’s incredible voice will live on forever. His love for the fans and his sons went unmatched, as was his own love for rock music.”
“What do you say about someone that was there by your side on such an amazing journey, the good and the bad? We prefer to let the music fill in the blanks. All those wonderful years together will be held close to our hearts. It was a privilege and joy to share the stage with him – many shows, many miles, and maximum rock. In the studio, Jack was amazing. He always came ready to work. And work hard, he did. Jack stayed until he got the best performance for each song. He brought the same excellence to every show. The consistency of his live performances were always beyond comparison. Rest In Peace, to one of rock’s biggest champions.”
Poison’s Bret Michaels wrote: “To my friend Jack Russell, such an amazing voice. May you rest in peace.” L.A. Guns guitarist Tracii Guns, who recently recorded an album with Russell under the name “Russell – Guns” wrote: “He was a master blues rock singer.”
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