American rock and roll pioneer Jerry Lee Lewis has died. He was 87 years old.

Lewis was born in the southern US state of Louisiana in 1935.

Following his debut in 1950s, he released many hit songs including "Great Balls of Fire."

His wild performances, including pounding the keys of the piano while standing, excited the fans and earned him a nickname, "The Killer." He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1986.

US media have reported that his influence on the US rock world was as significant as that of Elvis Presley, who was known as the King of Rock and Roll, and Chuck Berry, who had numerous global hits. They say Lewis's private life, including his seven marriages, drew a lot of attention.

A statement released on his social media on Friday says his wife was by his side when he passed away at his home in Mississippi.