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Who are Phil Naro's children James and John Sampognaro? Rock singer, 62, died battling tongue cancer in New York

'Phil fought a valiant battle against cancer over the last few years but left this earth last night,' his family said in a statement

Canadian rockstar Phil Naro of TALAS band fame has died after a long battle with tongue cancer. He was 63 years old at the time of his death in New York. The iconic rocker had performed with top musical artists of his time and stayed at the peak of popularity in both United States and Canada. The news of his passing was declared by his family in an emotional statement on May 3, 2021.

"It is with great sadness that we must announce the passing of our son, father, friend and musician Phillip Sampognaro, known professionally as Phil Naro. Phil fought a valiant battle against cancer over the last few years but left this earth last night surrounded by his family and closest friends. A citizen of both the United States and Canada, he died at his home in Rochester. Funeral arrangements and tributes will be announced shortly. He is survived by sons James and John; brother Joseph; and his mother, Maria, who he loved dearly," read an excerpt from the statement. 

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Who are John and James Sampognaro? 

John and James Sampognaro are also well-known musicians who are carrying on their father's legacy of rock music. Following in the footsteps of their father, the brothers also identify themselves as John Naro and James Naro respectively, instead of using their original family name. Together, they formed the band 'Mucho DeNaros'.

Both the brothers often joined Phil Naro in his musical performances and collaborated with him on various musical projects. 

"Honestly, we just sort of took after our Dad. We just wanted to do this, and went to all his gigs," James said in a 2015 interview with Mississauga. For years, the brother duo performed at gigs across Canada while they made and repaired guitars as a side hustle. They generally cover major rock legends like Oasis, Killers, Extreme, The Beatles, Cheap Trick, Stone Temple Pilots, Queen, The Outfield etc.

The present Facebook page of James Naro describes him as a 'hard rock musician based in Toronto, Ontario'. Besides performing regularly and releasing cover videos, he also crafts different musical instruments.

'Thank you for all the music and the memories Phil'

Phil Naro's death was mourned by hundreds of his fans on Twitter as they paid tribute to the legendary rock singer. 

Musician Billy Sheehan tweeted, "Phil Naro. One of the finest human beings I have ever known. I’m deeply saddened to report his passing. He fought a valiant battle till the end, and inspired all who knew him to stay positive and keep going against all odds. God bless you, Phil. Rest in peace dear friend."

"Talas singer Phil Naro has passed away. Thank you for all the music and the memories Phil. Rest In Peace," tweeted podcaster Mitch Lafon. "Legendary Rochester (and Toronto) musician Phil Naro has lost his battle with cancer. Frontman for Buffalo-based Talas. Phil played here often over the years. Such a talented musician and real good guy. Rest easy," wrote journalist Seth Voorhees.