Cory Wells – the rock vocalist best known for his work with ’60s and ’70s group Three Dog Night – has passed away at the age of 74.
Sources say Wells “died unexpectedly” at his home in Dunkirk, NY. No cause of death was given.
Wells and Three Dog Night experienced success early on with such hits as “One,” “Mama Told Me Not to Come,” “Joy to the World (Jeremiah Was a Bullfrog)” and “Black and White.”
Wells collaborated with and helped launch the careers of such legendary songwriters as Harry Nilsson and Randy Newman.
“It is with deep sadness and disbelief that I must report the passing of Cory Wells, my beloved band mate for over 45 years,” bandmate Danny Hutton wrote in a press release.
“Cory was an incredible singer – a great performer, he could sing anything. Cory was like a brother in so many ways. We had been together since 1965 and I am in shock at this sudden loss.”‘
After decades of touring and recording Wells was forced to part ways with the band due to chronic back pain in September.
Wells is survived by Mary, his wife of 50 years, his daughters Coryann and Dawn Marie, and five grandchildren.
