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Rock & Roll Icon 'Boom Boom' Cannon Dies at 89
18 Jul
Summary
- Freddy 'Boom Boom' Cannon, known for hits like 'Tallahassee Lassie', passed away yesterday.
- He was 89 and died after a brief battle with cancer.
- Cannon's music inspired superstars like Mick Jagger and Stephen King.
Early rock and roller Freddy "Boom Boom" Cannon died yesterday, July 17, at a California hospice facility. He was 89 and had been undergoing treatment for cancer.
Cannon achieved significant fame with joyful hits such as "Tallahassee Lassie" (1959) and "Palisades Park" (1962). His distinctive rock and roll style, often characterized by powerful drumming, earned him the nickname "Boom Boom."
He was a frequent guest on Dick Clark's "American Bandstand," reportedly appearing over 100 times, and also graced other popular music shows of his era like "Shindig!" and "Hullabaloo."
Cannon's music resonated with future superstars, with Mick Jagger citing "Tallahassee Lassie" as an inspiration for The Rolling Stones' "Brown Sugar." Stephen King was also a notable fan, incorporating Cannon's songs into his writing.
Born Frederick Anthony Picariello Jr. on December 4, 1936, in Lynn, Massachusetts, Cannon's career spanned 70 years. He performed alongside many early rock and roll greats and remained active in music until his death, with a recent song charting in the United Kingdom.
He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His wife, Jeanette, and son John, predeceased him earlier this year.
