Sonny Curtis, Crickets Member Who Wrote 'I Fought the Law,' Dead at 88

Sonny Curtis, Crickets Member Who Wrote 'I Fought the Law,' Dead at 88 Sonny Curtis, a one-time member of Buddy Holly's backing band the Crickets who later penned and performed the hit theme song to The Mary Tyler Moore Show, has passed away at the age of 88. Curtis' daughter Sarah confirmed his death on social media, stating that he died after a sudden illness. Curtis was born in Meadow, Texas, and first played alongside Holly in the mid-1950s before forming the Crickets with Holly in 1957. However, it was not until 1958 that Curtis officially joined the Crickets, just months before Holly's death in February 1959. Curtis remained a member of the band for several years. According to Sarah Curtis, her father died peacefully surrounded by family members. "He was 88 and he lived a more exceptional life than anyone I'd ever met," she wrote on social media. "He made a mark on this world, and he made a mark on the hearts of all who knew him." The Crickets' music had a significant impact on the development of rock 'n' roll in the 1950s. Curtis' songwriting contributions to the band's catalog are still celebrated by fans today. Curtis' legacy extends beyond his work with the Crickets. He also wrote and performed the theme song for The Mary Tyler Moore Show, which aired from 1970 to 1977. The show was a groundbreaking sitcom that tackled real-world issues and paved the way for future comedies. In response to Curtis' passing, fans and fellow musicians have taken to social media to pay tribute to his life and work. "Sonny Curtis was an incredible musician and songwriter," said musician and producer, Mike Love. "He will be deeply missed by all who knew him." The music industry has lost a true legend with the passing of Sonny Curtis. His contributions to rock 'n' roll and television history will continue to be celebrated for years to come. Background: Sonny Curtis was born in Meadow, Texas, in 1937. He began playing music at an early age and eventually formed the Crickets with Buddy Holly in 1957. After Holly's death, Curtis continued to work as a musician and songwriter, penning hits like "I Fought the Law" and writing the theme song for The Mary Tyler Moore Show. Additional Perspectives: Curtis' daughter Sarah has been open about her father's legacy and impact on their family. In an interview with Rolling Stone in 2019, she stated that her father was a kind and generous person who always put others before himself. "He had this incredible sense of humor and he could make anyone laugh," she said. Current Status: Sonny Curtis is survived by his daughter Sarah and wife. Funeral arrangements have not been announced at this time. Next Developments: As the music industry continues to mourn the loss of Sonny Curtis, fans are coming together to celebrate his life and work. A tribute concert is planned for later this year, featuring performances by musicians who were influenced by Curtis' music. *Reporting by Rollingstone.*