On his official Facebook page, singer Meat Loaf’s family announced that he has died at age 74. While they did not mention a cause of death, it seems that it was not completely unexpected since his family was with him when he passed away. According to the Facebook post, he was “surrounded by his wife Deborah, daughters Pearl and Amanda and close friends.”

The family thanked the fans and acknowledged their “love and support,” but asked for “understanding of our need for privacy at this time.” The post ended with the call to action, “don’t ever stop rocking!”

According to previous Facebook posts, Meat Loaf was planning to start recording in the studio on January 5th. He was going to record 7 new songs plus his new album would include live versions of some of his classic songs.

In a post from November, Meat Loaf mentioned that he’d had four back surgeries back to back, and it left him “in a lot of pain.” He advised his fans not to get back surgery if there is any other option. However, he was thankful to be alive.

Upon the news of his death, many celebrities have shared tributes on social media including Cher, Boy George and composer Andrew Lloyd Webster.

Had So Much Fun With Meatloaf When We Did “Dead Ringer”. Am Very Sorry For His Family,Friends,& Fans. Am I imagining It, or Are Amazing Ppl In The Arts Dying every other Day⁉️😢

— Cher (@cher) January 21, 2022

R.I.P Meatloaf. Love and prayers to all his family and close friends. He once turned me upside down in a Chinese Restaurant in St Johns Wood.

— Boy George (@BoyGeorge) January 21, 2022

The vaults of heaven will be ringing with rock. RIP Meatloaf. Give my best to Jim. – ALW

— Andrew Lloyd Webber (@OfficialALW) January 21, 2022

Meat Loaf had a very successful career with iconic songs including “I Would Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That)” and “Bat Out of Hell.” He has also acted in multiple films including “Fight Club” and “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.”

Watch the video below to learn more about Meat Loaf’s life and career.