R.I.P.: Cory Wells Co-Founder of 3 Dog Night

Cory Weels

Cory Wells, one of the lead singers of Three Dog Night, has died.

He was 74, according to WKBW-TV.

Wells, pictured here on the far left with the other members of his band, died unexpectedly Tuesday at his home in Dunkirk, NY, near Buffalo.

Beginning in September, the band postponed several shows, saying Wells needed continued treatment for a nerve problem in his back that caused severe pain.

Wells was an original member of Three Dog Night. Bandmate Danny Hutton said, "Cory was like a brother in so many ways. We had been together since 1965 and I am in shock at this sudden loss."

Three Dog Night Mourns the Loss of Cory Wells“It is with deep sadness and disbelief that I must report the passing of...
Posted by Three Dog Night on Wednesday, October 21, 2015

According to a biography posted on the band's website, Wells was born Emil Lewandowski in Buffalo on February 2, 1941 to a single mother. He joined the U.S. Air Force out of high school. After his service ended, he returned to Buffalo and played in several bands before moving to California.



He is survived by Mary, his wife of 50 years, daughter Coryann and Dawn Marie, and five grandchildren.