Chuck Berry died from natural causes and no autopsy has been planned, TMZ reports. The 90-year-old music icon passed away on 18 March at his home in St Louis after police responded to a medical emergency call, and attempts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful. According to the site, Chuck's personal doctor is expected to sign his death certificate confirming that his death was natural. It's not yet known if any illness or diseases contributed to his passing.
© Photo: Getty ImagesChuck Berry passed away on 18 March at the age of 90
The update comes just a few hours after Chuck's family announced that his final album will be released as planned. The Johnny B Goode rock star was set to release Chuck, his first album since Rock It in 1979, this year and now his estate has confirmed it will be unveiled to the public as a tribute to him. "Since Chuck's passing on Saturday, the Berry family has received many inquiries from friends, fans and media about the status of his forthcoming album Chuck, which was originally announced on his 90th birthday, 18 October 2016," a statement read.
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"Working to prepare the release of this record in recent months and in fact over the last several years brought Chuck a great sense of joy and satisfaction. While our hearts are very heavy at this time, we know Chuck had no greater wish than to see this album released to the world, and we know of no better way to celebrate and remember his 90 years of life than through his music."
© Photo: Getty ImagesChuck strutting his signature 'duck walk' during a concert in Hollywood in 1980
Following the news of Chuck's death, musicians took to Twitter in their droves to pay tribute. Rolling Stones star Mick Jagger led the way, thanking the star for his "inspirational music". He wrote: "He lit up our teenage years, and blew life into our dreams of being musicians and performers. His lyrics shone above others and threw a strange light on the American dream. Chuck, you were amazing, and your music is engraved inside us forever." Ronnie Wood reflected: "So sad with the passing of Chuck Berry comes the end of an era. He was one of the best and my inspiration, a true character indeed," while Keith Richards simply wrote: "One of my big lights has gone out."
