Songwriters Hall of Fame

Talented and controversial Jerry Lee Lewis was born on September 29, 1935 in Ferriday, Louisiana. He began playing the piano at the age of nine and became a professional at 15.

In 1955, Lewis was signed to the Sun Record label, which also represented Elvis Presley, and his first recording “Whole Lot of Shakin’ Going On” went to #3 on the Billboard charts in 1957. He followed that hit with the legendary “Great Balls of Fire,” which hit #2 in 1957 and remained at the top of the charts for 21 weeks. The following year, Lewis released his single “Breathless” which also became a top ten hit.

His career waned in 1958 after his marriage to his 13 year old cousing and daughter of his bass player, Myra Gale Brown. Lewis made a comeback in country music, eventually charting 65 country hits between 1957 and 1989.

Nicknamed “The Killer,” Lewis was a controversial and tragic figure in the 1980’s and 90’s, battling several illnesses and public divorces. However, in 1986 he was inducted into the Rock N’ Roll hall of fame for his unique and ubiquitous talent.