Hundreds gathered at a memorial service yesterday (January 18) for the late singer Phil Everly, who died recently aged 74 following complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Fans shared memorabilia and listened to singers, including country musician Marty Brown, perform the music of the Everly Brothers at the event in Kentucky on Saturday. There was also tribute speeches from friends and family.
Prior to the memorial, Diana Sue Taylor, a cousin of the Everly Brothers, viewed the memorabilia donated by fans and thanked them for their support, reports Billboard. “I’m so happy to see so many family, friends and fans of my cousins come together for such a joyous occasion. Looking at all the memorabilia brings back so many fond memories,” she said.
Alongside older brother Don, the Everly Brothers were one of the biggest bands of the 1950s and early 1960s and were particularly known for their close harmonies. Their hits included ‘Wake Up Little Susie’, ‘Cathy’s Clown’, ‘Bye Bye Love’, and ‘All I Have To Do Is Dream’. The duo were among the first 10 acts to be inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame when it was launched in 1986.
Last week Paul McCartney paid tribute to Everly. In a statement the former Beatle said that he was one of his “great heroes” and cited The Everly Brothers as a key influence on The Beatles.
