Jerry Lee Lewis, frequent performer at Fort Worth’s Billy Bob’s Texas, dies at 87

Influential rock ‘n’ roll singer Jerry Lee Lewis passed away on Friday morning. He was 87.

The “Great Balls of Fire” singer died at his Mississippi home and leaves behind his wife Judith and several children, according to the Associated Press.

Lewis burst onto the music scene during the 1950s with other influential rock ‘n’ roll performers like Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry. While he started in rock, Lewis would had a lengthy career in the country music genre as well.

Lewis made his Billy Bob’s Texas debut on Dec. 18, 1981. The very next day, Lewis performed again with special guest John Anderson. Tickets to those shows ranged from $7 to $9, which in today’s dollar translates to around $22 to $29.

The famed Cowtown music hall said in a statement: “We are saddened by the news of Jerry Lee Lewis’ passing. This rock ‘n’ roll legend’s larger than life personality and style captivated audiences for years. ... Cementing his mark on the club with his handprints on May 10, 1991, he will forever be in our hearts. Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones.”

Lewis made sure to swing by Billy Bob’s frequently over the years. In total, Lewis played 20 shows at Billy Bob’s across the ‘80s, ‘90s and 2000s.