On Chuck Berry’s 90th birthday, October 18, 2016, he announced that he was finalising his latest album, Chuck.
The album would be his first in 38 years, dating all the way back to 1979’s Rock It. He said of the album “This record is dedicated to my beloved Toddy [wife of 68 years, Themetta Berry]. My darlin’ I’m growing old! I’ve worked on this record for a long time. Now I can hang up my shoes!”
Produced and written by Chuck, the album is now going through its finishing touches according to the late singer/guitarist’s estate who issued the following statement on Tuesday:
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.
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 that 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.
For months now plans have been in place, and preparations have been made with our friends at Dualtone Records, to reveal further details and music from the album this week. As a tribute to Chuck Berry, and with gratitude to his fans around the world, we will be following through on those plans in the coming days.
The Chuck Berry Family.
