Phil Everly, one half of the famed Everly Brothers duo, died on Friday at a Burbank, Calif., hospital. He was 74.

Phil Everly Dies

Everly’s death was confirmed by Providence St. Joseph Medical Center spokesperson Patricia Aidem. He passed away from complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, his wife, Patti Everly, told The Los Angeles Times.

Phil Everly and his surviving brother Don Everly, 76, hit the height of their career during the 50 and 60s, battling the likes of Elvis Presley and Pat Boone in record sales. Over the course of their career, they recorded an impressive total of 35 Top 100 songs. Among their biggest hits were "Bye Bye Love," "Wake Up Little Susie," "When Will I Be Loved" and "All I Have to Do Is Dream."

With Phil’s higher voice and Don’s lower tone, the Everly Brothers offered a unique sound that blended a number of different genres, including folk, bluegrass and rock ‘n’ roll.

The Everly Brothers' Influence

The Everly Brothers' contribution to music could not be overstated. They’ve been named as the inspiration for the emergence of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel’s duo, and their hit “All I Have to Do Is Dream” served as an early cover for The Beatles.

Among Phil Everly’s music accolades are the Everly Brothers' induction into the Rock and Roll and Country Music Hall of Fames. The duo also received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997.

In addition to his brother Don and wife Patti, Everly is survived by his mother Margaret, sons Jason and Chris and two granddaughters.

– Chelsea Regan

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