Jack Russell, Founding Singer of Great White, Dies at 63

Jack Russell, the original vocalist for the glam metal band Great White, has passed away at the age of 63.

The singer’s death was confirmed through a message posted on his Facebook page.

“With tremendous sadness, we announce the loss of our beloved Jack Patrick Russell — father, husband, cousin, uncle, and friend,” the post began, noting that the rocker “passed peacefully” surrounded by his family. “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.”

In a separate post, Great White noted that Russell’s “incredible voice will live on forever.” “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.”

Born in Montebello, California, Russell began playing with guitarist Mark Kendall in 1977. After serving an 18-month stint in prison, Russell joined Kendall in the band Dante Fox, which eventually evolved into Great White.

The band released its self-titled debut album in 1984, followed by their sophomore effort Shot in the Dark in 1986. Neither album attracted much mainstream attention initially, but the group built a devoted fanbase through constant touring, opening for popular acts like Judas Priest, Whitesnake, and Kiss.

Great White’s fortunes rose significantly with the release of their third album, 1987’s Once Bitten…. The singles “Rock Me” and “Save Your Love” became rock radio hits. By 1988, Once Bitten… was certified platinum, and the band toured with the likes of Guns N’ Roses and Twisted Sister.

Their commercial peak came with the 1989 album …Twice Shy, featuring their biggest hit, a cover of Ian Hunter’s “Once Bitten, Twice Shy.” The song peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and helped the album sell over 2 million copies.

Despite ongoing releases, the band’s popularity waned in the ‘90s. Russell took a break in 1996 to release his debut solo album. By 2001, Great White had officially disbanded.

Russell began performing under his own name before forming Jack Russell’s Great White. The band became part of a tragic chapter in history in 2003, when pyrotechnics during a performance at The Station nightclub in Rhode Island ignited a fire, killing 100 people and injuring 230 others.

Great White and Russell reunited briefly in 2006, but ongoing health and addiction issues plagued Russell by 2009. His final album with the band, Rising, was released the same year. Following legal disputes over the Great White name, an agreement allowed Great White to continue under its original name while Russell could tour as Jack Russell’s Great White.

Most recently, in July 2024, Russell announced his retirement from touring following a diagnosis of Lewy body dementia (LBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA).

“Words cannot express my gratitude for the many years of memories, love, and support,” he said at the time. “Thank you for letting me live my dreams. You have made my life a wonder.”