TULSA, Okla. — Beloved singer-songwriter Dwight Twilley passed away at 72 on Oct. 19.
The Church Studio in Tulsa, where Twilley spent hours creating music, shared the news on Facebook.
Twilley's story of global fandom begins in the place where he was born and raised: Tulsa.
"Dwight Twilley is so loved here," continued Knox. "He was born here, went to Edison High School, grew to this superstardom, not only here in Tulsa and across America, but also internationally."
Twilley and his band partner, Phil Seymour, hit the road out of Tulsa to pursue a career in music. It was in Los Angeles where Leon Russell's Shelter Records gave them a record deal.
Twilley is known for songs like "Girls" and "I'm On Fire" that charted in the top 20.
"The loss is immeasurable, and our words can't capture the depth of our grief," Dwight's wife Jan shared with The Church Studio. "Dwight's musical prowess touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many. We are profoundly thankful for the enduring musical legacy he has bestowed upon us all."
Twilley was set to be inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame. He was unanimously voted in on Oct. 4.
He is credited for pioneering a distinctive music style known as power pop.
"Pop-y, catchy tunes with beautiful melodies and hooks," said Knox.
Despite his status, Twilley had a down-to-earth quality that endeared him to everyone. Knox recalled, "Even though he was this big star, he made everyone feel comfortable."
On Facebook, the Church Studio said it plans to provide further details about Twilley's passing at a later date.
Knox shared that Twilley passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
2 News spoke with Twilley in 2016 after Russell's passing:
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