PITTSBURGH, PA —Barely two weeks after announcing his retirement from performing after a storied career in music, Pittsburgh music legend Donnie Iris has died. He was 83.
Iris had been battling cancer for several years.
Born Dominic Ierace, Iris was known for his work with the Jaggerz and Wild Cherry in the 1970s and for his 1980s solo career with the Cruisers in the 1980s.
He wrote the number 2 Billboard hit "The Rapper" with the Jaggerz. His hits as a solo performer in the 1980s included "Ah Leah!," which went to number 29 on the charts and "Love Is Like a Rock," which peaked at number 37.
Iris recently announced his retirement from live performances after a Sept. 28 performance at the grand opening of Citizens Live at the Wylie, Pittsburgh's newest concert venue near PPG Paints Arena.
"After much thought, and in light of recent health issues, I have made the difficult decision to retire from future concert performances," Iris stated in a Facebook post.
"Music has given me far more than I could ever put into words. From the earliest days to every chapter of my life, your support has been a constant source of joy and inspiration. I am deeply grateful to my daughters and my entire family, the musicians, crew members, promoters, venues, and especially the fans who made this life possible."
Iris also shared his thoughts on the show at the Wylie, saying, "It was a meaningful and fitting moment to share with all of you in my hometown."
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