RIP Meat Loaf: The rock icon behind Bat Out of Hell and star of The Rocky Horror Picture Show dead at 74

Rock icon Meat Loaf has died at 74.

Meat Loaf (Marvin Lee Aday) shot to stardom in the late ’70s with the grandiose rock opera album Bat Out of Hell, which went on to sell 43 copies worldwide. Developed from a musical by Jim Steinman, the theatrical album featured Meat Loaf’s soaring vocals over fist-pumping arena rock classics including the title track, “Paradise by the Dashboard Light,” and “Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad.” Jim Steinman passed away last year at 73.

The album spurned two sequels, including its 1993 follow-up which featured the instantly-quotable power ballad smash “I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That).”

Meat Loaf also had roles in dozens of films throughout his career including his unforgettable role as Eddie the unstable rocker in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, as well as memorable supporting roles in Fight Club and Wayne’s World.

The singer died on Thursday, according to a statement provided by his agent Michael Greene.

“Our hearts are broken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight,” the statement said. “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… From his heart to your souls … don’t ever stop rocking!”

No cause of death has been announced.

Born in Dallas, Texas, in 1947, Meat Loaf had a long career before his blockbuster debut album, playing in garage and soul bands and appearing in musicals including Hair. Yet Bat Out of Hell turned him into a superstar and his long-running collaboration with Jim Steinman resulted in over 100 million album sales (Bat Out of Hell remains one of the top 10 selling albums of all time).

RIP Meatloaf. Revisit some of his classic tracks below. Play them loud!