Lightnin’ Strikes singer Lou Christie passes away at 82

Lugee Alfredo Giovanni Sacco, famously known by his stage name, Lou Christie, passed away on June 18. hristie was a pop-rock singer and songwriter who had multiple hits during his career, including "Lightnin' Strikes" and "Rhapsody In the Rain."

The news was announced by the Sacco family on Instagram with the statement:

"It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of our beloved brother, Lou Christie, who left us after a brief illness. He was cherished not only by his family and close friends, but also by countless fans whose lives he touched with his kindness and generosity, artistic and musical talent, humor and spirit."

Additionally, Christie’s wife, Francesca, told The Hollywood Reporter that he died at their home in Pittsburgh following a short illness, as also noted in the family’s Instagram statement, though the specific illness has not been revealed. Christie was 82 years old.

Tributes pour in following Lou Christie's death

Journalist and host of Opening Statements with Julie Grant, Julie Grant, wrote a heartfelt message for Lou on social media that read:

"Lou Christie had the voice of an angel!✨ Now, he’s singing with them in Heaven 🙏🤍😭 While my heart is breaking with the news of his passing, I’m so grateful to have memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Those of you who know me well know that he has been my favorite singer since I was a little girl ❤️"

Publicist Danny Deraney wrote on X (formerly Twitter):

"The man had a rare four octave range which made his voice and falsetto undeniable. Lightning Strikes went all the way to Number 1 in 1966 and is a banger."

A bass player, Ivan Funkboy Bodley, wrote on his social media:

"I've known Lou Christie 30 years and have played with him countless times. Always a gentleman, always professional, always singing his ass off, and always a pleasure to be around. He will be missed. RIP..."

A national print fashion magazine, Gladys Magazine's account posted:

"All of us at Gladys are very saddened by the passing of Lou Christie shown here with Fabian & Frankie Avalon. Lou was the owner of one of the most distinctive voices in pop-music history. #louchristie"

Singer Justin Fabus wrote on X, paying tribute to Christie:

"Saddened to hear about the passing of the great Lou Christie. An amazing voice and a Pittsburgh legend. I had the privilege of meeting Lou and his kindness matched his incredible talent. My love and prayers go out to his family. 🖤💛🙏🏻"

Trending

Christie began singing in high school and dreamed of making it to American Bandstand. He started his music career in the late 1950s, eventually gaining national attention with his first hit, "The Gypsy Cried," in 1962.

Also Read: Remembering the musicians who passed away in 2025 (so far)

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback