Bo Diddley Dead Of Heart Attack At 79

We just got word that Bo Diddley has died of heart failure today at his Florida home. The Associated Press reports:

He had suffered a heart attack in August 2007, three months after suffering a stroke while touring in Iowa. Doctors said the stroke affected his ability to speak, and he had returned to Florida to continue rehabilitation.

His first single, “Bo Diddley,” introduced record buyers in 1955 to his signature rhythm: bomp ba-bomp bomp, bomp bomp, often summarized as “shave and a haircut, two bits.” The B side, “I’m a Man,” with its slightly humorous take on macho pride, also became a rock standard.

As far as we know Diddley is the only person in history to inspire the AP to write, “bomp ba-bomp bomp, bomp bomp.” Which, in itself, is a tribute. R.I.P. broder.

Rock pioneer Bo Diddley dies at age 79 [AP]