How did Dwight Twilley die? Singer, 72, shared post about scheduled tibia surgery with fans days before demise
TULSA, OKLAHOMA: Dwight Twilley, best known for his hit singles 'I'm on Fire' and 'Girls' died on Wednesday, October 18 just after sharing a post about awaiting surgery.
According to Tulsa World, the singer, 72, died in the Critical Care Unit at Ascension St. John Medical Center with his wife and close friends by his side.
The reason for death is yet to be made public. However, according to the site, Twilley had a stroke on October 14 while driving alone, causing his car to collide with a tree.
Dwight Twilley's wife shares tragic news
Jan, Dwight's grieving wife, shared the tragic news in a statement on Tulsa's The Church Studio Facebook page. She wrote: "With heavy hearts, we share the devastating news of Dwight Twilley's passing."
"He peacefully departed this world, surrounded by the love of his life, Jan, and close friends. The loss is immeasurable, and our words can’t capture the depth of our grief." Jan added.
"Dwight’s musical prowess touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many. We are profoundly thankful for the enduring musical legacy he has bestowed upon us all."
Dwight's cause of death is still unknown. According to Jan, the family will "provide further details as we honor and remember Dwight Twilley's remarkable life," as cited by Mirror.
Dwight Twilley spoke about having to 'hang up Dancin' shoes'
Dwight revealed that he had broken his leg during the weekend. On Facebook, he shared: "Dwight Twilley broke his leg! Has to hang up his Dancin’ shoes for a while."
He then said that he was scheduled for tibia surgery, writing: "I’m not feelin’ that great today… My leg is Very Messed up… Nighty, night, night [sic]."
What was Dwight Twilley famous for?
Dwight, who was born in Tulsa in 1951, had his musical debut with his friend Phil Seymour, who died in 1993. After forming the band OiSTER, they obtained a record deal a few years later.
They had two top 20 hits: 'Girls' (1984) and 'I'm On Fire' (1975) under the moniker Dwight Twilley Band and played together until Dwight became well-known as a solo performer in 1978.
Earlier this year, Dwight's tracks were included in a "Best of" compilation. It covers six original albums: 'Tulsa', 'The Luck', '47 Moons', 'Green Blimp', 'Soundtrack', and 'Always', per The Sun.
Tributes pour in for Dwight Twilley
People swiftly flocked to social media to pour in tributes for Dwight Twilley. A user shared, "I fell madly in love with Dwight Twilley and his music when I was 21. We connected later through The Church Studio and our mutual respect for Leon Russell. I’m so sad for the loss of this bigger-than-life legend. A trailblazer in every sense, Dwight will be so very missed. Much love to his amazing wife Jan."
"We are sad to see the band's shelter label mate Dwight Twilley has passed on. He sang background on some early Heartbreakers tracks and here Tom is playing bass on one of his," penned Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers.
"I follow Dwight Twilley on social media and he always seemed to be looking to the future. While I did not know him personally, I got a sense that he had a great love for life. The man has gone, but the music remains. Thank you, Dwight, for that gift," said another.
Sound City Studios said, "So sorry to hear of Dwight Twilley's passing. He recorded his album "Jungle" at Sound City Studios."