Chuck Berry, rock '˜n' roll great, dies at 90

Rock '˜n' roll musician Chuck Berry has died after being found unresponsive at his home, police said. He was 90.

Chuck Berry performs during the "Rose Ball" in Monaco in 2009. Picture: AP

St Charles County Police Department, in Missouri, said paramedics tried to administer “lifesaving techniques” on the singer and guitarist but he could not be revived.

Police responded to calls to a medical emergency at his home at around 12.40pm (5.40pm GMT) on Saturday.

A spokeswoman said: “Inside the home, first responders observed an unresponsive man and immediately administered lifesaving techniques. Unfortunately, the 90-year-old man could not be revived and was pronounced deceased at 1.26pm.

Chuck Berry performs during the "Rose Ball" in Monaco in 2009. Picture: AP

“The St Charles County Police Department sadly confirms the death of Charles Edward Anderson Berry Sr, better known as legendary musician Chuck Berry.

“The family requests privacy during this time of bereavement.”

The music industry reacted with sadness.

The Jacksons said on Twitter: “Chuck Berry merged blues & swing into the phenomenon of early rock ‘n’ roll. In music, he cast one of the longest shadows. Thank You Chuck.”

Chuck Berry performs during a concert celebration for his 60th birthday at the Fox Theatre in St. Louis.

Whitesnake frontman David Coverdale said: “So sad to share the news of the exceptional Chuck Berry’s passing...RIP Chuck...”

Epic Records chairman LA Reid said: “Music was changed forever by Chuck Berry’s indescribable impact. What a great life in music.”