Sonny Curtis, a founding member of the pioneering rock and roll group The Crickets and the songwriter behind the iconic hit “I Fought the Law,” died on September 19, 2025, at the age of 88. The news was confirmed by his family.
Curtis’s passing marks the end of an era for early rock and roll, impacting musicians and fans alike who were influenced by The Crickets’ innovative sound and his enduring songwriting. “I Fought the Law,” released in 1959, became a defining anthem of youthful rebellion and has been covered by countless artists, cementing Curtis’s legacy in music history. his contributions helped shape the landscape of American popular music, and his work continues to resonate with audiences today.
Born Harvey Paul curtis on June 9, 1937, in Mangum, Oklahoma, he adopted the stage name Sonny Curtis while performing with The Crickets alongside Buddy Holly, Joe B. Mauldin, and Jerry Allison. The group rose to prominence in the late 1950s with hits like ”That’ll Be the Day,” “Peggy Sue,” and “Oh Boy!”-songs that helped define the sound of a generation.
Following holly’s tragic death in 1959, Curtis continued to write and perform, contributing considerably to the band’s subsequent recordings. He penned “I Fought the Law” with norman Petty, and the song gained widespread recognition through The Bobby Fuller Four’s 1965 rendition, becoming a staple of rock and roll radio.
Beyond his work with The crickets, Curtis enjoyed a successful solo career and continued to tour and record music throughout his life.He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Crickets in 2012,a testament to the group’s lasting impact on music.His songwriting credits also include “Love Is All Around,” which became a major hit for The Rembrandts in 1995 after being featured in the television show Friends.
Details regarding memorial services have not yet been announced. He is survived by his wife, Ronelda, and their children.
