Former Great White member Jack Russell, 63, has unexpectedly passed away. The author of his autobiography, K.L. Doty, revealed to The New York Times that he died from Lewy body dementia and multiple system atrophy. The news comes almost a month after Russell took retirement from touring due to his health problems.
A statement was posted through Russell's official Instagram page on August 15, 2024, confirming the news of his demise. The post stated that details related to the public memorial would be revealed soon and continued:
"Jackl 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. His family asks for privacy at this time."
Furthermore, Great White expressed their grief through social media, saying that his voice would be alive forever and recalled that he had a lot of love for his fans and sons. They also wrote:
"It was a privilege and joy to share the stage with him – many shows, many miles, and maximum rock. In the studio, Jack was amazing. He always came ready to work. And work hard, he did. Jack stayed until he got the best performance for each song. He brought the same excellence to every show."
The comments section was also flooded with tributes, where netizens recalled Jack's flawless work with the group, saying that he had the best voice. His survivors include his wife, Heather Ann Russell, alongside a son named Matthew Hucko.
Great White went through multiple changes among members over the years: Identities and other details explained
The Los Angeles, California-based group delivered multiple hit projects over the years. However, the band was additionally in the headlines after they went on multiple breaks since 2001 and multiple changes in their lineup of members.
Great White was originally established in 1987, and their albums have been commercially successful. The current lineup of members, includes Mark Kendall, Audie Desbrow, Michael Lardie, Scott Snyder, and Brett Carlisle. Notably, Kendall has been the oldest member since the beginning.
Kendall was also one of the founding members along with Jack Russell, Gary Holland, and Lorne Black. Their first major project was an EP titled Out of the Night, and they slowly began playing at different events and venues, including the Six Flags Magic Mountain.
Great White then began touring various cities and was joined by another member, Michael Lardie. During the 70s and 80s, many musicians performed with them, including Don Costa, Tony Richards, Lisa Baker, and Butch Say. The lineup continued to expand in the 90s with members such as Tony Montana, Dave Spitz, Teddy Cook, Sean McNabb, and Matthew Johnson.
Starting in 2000, multiple vocalists began joining the group, including Ty Longley, Krya Baratto, Terry Ilous, Paul Shortino, Lani Jame, Mitch Malloy, and Andrew Freeman.
Several others played drums for Great White in the next few years like Eric Powers, Derrick Pontier, Dicki Fliszar, and Ken Mary. In the bass section, were artists like David Filice, Scott Pounds, Dario Seixas, and Dan McNay. Yuko Tamura, Jordan Martin, and Tyler Nelson contributed as keyboardists.
The band's self-titled debut album came out back in 1984 and it managed to grab the 144th spot on the US Billboard 200. They continued releasing more albums, such as Shot in the Dark, Hooked, Let it Rock, and Can't Get There from Here. Great White also released singles like Rock Me, Save Your Love, The Angel Song, and Desert Moon.