Jake Hooker, co-writer of “I Love Rock ‘N’ Roll” and guitarist for the Arrows, died earlier this week in California. He was 61.

Jake Hooker Dies

Hooker’s death was confirmed in a statement by his ex-wife, actress Lorna Luft.

“After a weekend of such joy with the birth of our granddaughter Jordan Eloise Richards, I have learned that Jordan’s grandfather, my former husband Jake Hooker, passed away this morning,” Luft’s statement read, according to Ultimate Classic Rock. “Jake was an accomplished musician and the father of my children. We are heartbroken. I have no other plans but to grieve with my children and be grateful for the gift that is our precious Jordan, my mother’s first great grandchild. We ask that you respect our privacy during this most difficult time.”

Born in Israel and raised in the United States, Hooker eventually moved to England in the 70s, where he met musician Alan Merrill, with whom he’d eventually form the band Streak – which later became the Arrows.

The Arrows are best known for their two Top 40 hits “A Touch Too Much and “My Last Night With You.” They also had their own show – The Arrows Show – which ran for two seasons in 1976 and 1977.

After The Arrows split in 1977, Hooker retured to the U.S. where he launched a career behind the scenes in music and became a successful producer. The Arrows' song “I Love Rock ‘N’ Roll” became a massive success when it was covered by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts in 1981. Hooker also produced hits for Flashdance, Top Gun and Rock IV.