Donnie Iris, the Pittsburgh music legend behind “Ah! Leah!,” has died, according to a former bandmate on Monday. He was 83.
Iris, who called Ellwood City his hometown, had been diagnosed with bladder cancer shortly after his sold-out 80th birthday show in 2023. He canceled several shows but later returned to the stage. He continued to perform until he announced his retirement earlier this month after a show at Citizens Live at The Wylie on Sept. 28.
“After much thought, and in light of recent health issues, I have made the difficult decision to retire from future concert performances,” Iris said in a letter posted to social media on Oct. 9. “Music has given me far more than I could ever put into words. From the earliest days to every chapter of my life, your support has been a constant source of joy and inspiration.”…