American musician Bo Diddley dies at age 79

June 2, 2008

Bo Diddley, influential American blues/rock and roll singer, songwriter, and guitarist has died today at his home in Archer, Florida from heart failure. He was 79 years old.

He was born Ellas Otha Bates on December 30, 1928 in McComb, Mississippi, USA. He rose to fame in 1955. His hits included "Pretty Thing", "Say Man" and "You Can't Judge a Book By the Cover". He also appeared as an opening act for The Clash and as a guest of The Rolling Stones. On March 25, 1972, he played with The Grateful Dead at the Academy of Music in New York City.

Diddley is survived by Tammi Deanne and Terri Lynne McDaniel, his daughters.