Donnie Iris, whose vocals were the driving force behind hits like 'Ah! Leah!', 'Love Is Like a Rock' and 'My Girl', died on Monday, October 26, 2026.
Iris was a legend in Western Pennsylvania, dating back to the late '60s as a member of The Jaggerz. His bandmates confirmed his death, noting he had been battling bladder cancer since his diagnosis in 2023.
In Western Pennsylvania, where Iris was celebrated as a local icon, the loss is felt deeply. Donnie Iris and the Cruisers drummer Joe Vitale Jr. shared, "My deepest condolences to Donnie's daughters and family.
To the band and crew, you are all so wonderful and I loved working with all of you all these years. Donnie, love ya brother."
Born Dominic Ierace in New Castle and raised in Ellwood City, Iris grew up listening to Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Elvis Presley, and eventually, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Motown. He began his musical journey in 1961 with the doo-wop group The Fabutons.
In 1964, Iris and Benny Faiella formed The Jaggerz, a band that became a staple of the Beaver Falls live music circuit. The Jaggerz released their debut album, Introducing The Jaggerz, in 1969.
The following year, they achieved their first breakthrough with the catchy pop song "The Rapper," written by Iris. Donnie Iris released his debut solo studio album, Back on the Streets, in 1980, which featured the record-breaking hit "Ah!
Leah!". Iris and the Cruisers followed up with the album King Cool in August 1981, which showcased a powerful guitar sound on "Love Is Like a Rock" and the synthesizer-driven "My Girl".
His influence on the regional music scene remained constant throughout the decades. Fans and fellow musicians have taken to social media to pay tribute to his enduring legacy, noting that his unique vocal style and songwriting ability helped define the sound of an era in American rock music.
The music community in Pittsburgh is planning a series of memorial concerts to honor his contributions. His family has requested privacy during this difficult time, while thanking the fans for their unwavering support over the years.