Philip “Phil” Everly of the famed 1950’s-60’s duo “The Everly Brothers”, has died after a long fight with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). His wife, Patti Everly, informed the LA Times of the famous pop/country singer’s death.
Phil Everly and his brother Isaac Donald “Don” Everly formed one of the most successful brother duos of the 1960’s. Although they were heavily influenced by American Country music, they played a rock and roll sound that featured their powerful harmonies. Phil Everly was known for his high tenor sound and steel string guitar playing. The Everly Brothers were among the first inductees into the Rock and Roll hall of fame in 1986. They were one of 10 artists to receive that honor.
The Everly Brothers hold the record for most Top 100 singles by any Rock and Roll duo, and trail only Hall & Oates for the most Top 40 singles by a duo. Featuring famous songs such as “Bye Bye Love”, “Wake Up Little Susie”, “All I Have To Do Is Dream”, and “Cathy’s Clown”, the Everly Brothers owned pop music in the late 50’s and 60’s. They influenced musicians for years to come. Even Anthony Kiedis of the Red Hot Chili Peppers named his son “Everly” after the brothers.
Phil Everly and his son Jason opened a guitar and bass string manufacturer and wholesaler called “Everly Music Company”. Phil owned and operated the company until his death on January 3, 2014.
Another creator of musical history passes by. Rest in Peace Phil Everly. 1939-2014 #PhilEverly #EverlyBrothers pic.twitter.com/RtwQQoEjU7
— John Lennon (@JLennon_Quotes) January 4, 2014
R.I.P one of my musical heroes, Phil Everly. I will forever cherish the moment we sang together
Phil Everly died after a long history of cigarette smoking which led to his COPD, his wife Patti said. He passed away surrounded by friends and family in their Burbank, CA home. Besides Patti, Phil Everly is survived by his brother Don, his mother Magaret, and his two sons Jason and Chris.
