21 January 2022, 08:41 | Updated: 1 February 2022, 17:56
Meat Loaf was best known for his powerful singing voice and eccentric personality, but just who was the man behind the persona?
Following the sad news of Meat Loaf's death at the age of 74, read on for everything you need to know about the 'Bat Out Of Hell' singing sensation.
Meat Loaf seen at 2010 Brit Awards in old footage
Where was Meat Loaf from?
Meat Loaf was born on September 27, 1947 in Dallas, Texas. He marked his 74th birthday in 2021.
He was the only child of Wilma Artie, a school teacher, and Orvis Wesley Aday, a former police officer who went into business with his wife in selling cough medicine.
What was Meat Loaf's real name?
Meat Loaf's real name was Marvin Lee Aday but contrary to popular belief, the singer had the nickname since he was a child.
Speaking to Oprah in 2016, Meat Loaf explained that he was "born bright red" and his father called him Meat because he looked like “nine and a half pounds of ground chuck.”
The second part of his nickname came about when he was thirteen and accidently stood on his sports coach's foot, causing him to say: “Get off my foot, you hunk of meat loaf!” - and the name stuck.
What are Meat Loaf's most famous songs?
Meat Loaf's 1977 album Bat Out of Hell went platinum with songs such as 'Paradise by the Dashboard Light' and 'Two Out of Three Ain't Bad' becoming huge hits for the star.
His 1993 hit 'I'd Do Anything for Love (But I Won't Do That)' from the album Bat Out of Hell II: Back Into Hell reached number one in 28 countries including the UK and USA.
Meat Loaf - I'd Do Anything For Love (But I Won't Do That) (Official Music Video)
The seven minute long music video for the song, inspired by Beauty and The Beast and The Phantom Of The Opera, has become a cult classic.
Alongside singing, Meat Loaf has also appeared in various films throughout his career including The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Fight Club and Wayne's World.
His net worth is reported to be $25 million.
Was Meat Loaf married and did he have children?
Meat Loaf had a step-daughter Pearl Aday, who was a young girl when Meat Loaf met and married her mother, Leslie G. Edmonds.
The pair had another daughter Amanda Aday, and divorced in 2001.
Pearl, 45, is a vocalist herself who has worked as a back-up singer for Mötley Crüe and Amanda, 39, is an actress best known for her role as Dora in HBO's Carnivàle.
Meat Loaf married his next wife Deborah Gillespie in 2007.
When did Meat Loaf pass away?
Meat Loaf sadly died aged 74 on Thursday, January 20, 2022.
Meat Loaf's agent Michael Greene confirmed that his wife was by his side, and that daughters Pearl and Amanda also said their goodbyes during his last 24 hours.
“We know how much he meant to so many of you and we truly appreciate all of the love and support as we move through this time of grief in losing such an inspiring artist and beautiful man,” Meat Loaf’s family said in a statement.
“From his heart to your souls…don’t ever stop rocking!”
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