Jack Russell, Great White Singer Who Survived Fire, Dies at 63

Jack Russell, the gravel-voiced singer of the popular Grammy-nominated 80s glam metal rock band Great White, has died at the age of 63. Russell was particularly known for hits like “Rock Me” and “Once Bitten Twice Shy.”

Unfortunately, his legacy is clouded by tragedy. In February 2023, his spin-off group, Jack Russell’s Great White, was performing at the Station Nightclub in West Warwick, Rhode Island. During the performance, their pyrotechnics ignited a fire resulting in one of the worst nightclub disasters in U.S. history. The tragic incident claimed 100 lives, including Great White’s guitarist, and left 230 people injured.

While Russell faced no charges, the band agreed to a $1 million settlement. The emotional and psychological toll of the incident was immense, ultimately contributing to the band’s split in 2005. The band later reformed in various versions, but in July, Russell announced on Instagram that he was retiring due to health issues.

“I am unable to perform at the level I desire and at the level you deserve. Words cannot express my gratitude for the many years of memories, love, and support,” Russell shared in his heartfelt post, explaining his illness. He was believed to be suffering from Lewy Body Dementia and Multiple System Atrophy.

Following his death, his family announced on Instagram: “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.”

Russell co-founded Great White in Southern California in 1984 after originally performing under the name Dante Fox. The group achieved their biggest success in 1989 with the hit “Once Bitten Twice Shy,” which climbed to No. 5 on the Billboard charts and earned a Grammy nomination.

After the original band disbanded in the 90s, Jack Russell’s Great White was established in 2002, a year before the devastating club fire. In the aftermath, the band’s tour manager and the club owners faced charges related to the tragedy.

Russell is survived by his wife, Heather Ann Russell, and his son, Matthew Hucko.

Source: The New York Times, The Daily Beast