David Johansen, the iconic singer and last surviving member of the New York Dolls, has passed away at the age of 75. Known for his distinctive voice and flamboyant style, Johansen was a pioneer in the glam and protopunk movements of the 1970s. The New York Dolls, with their gender-bending fashion sense and rebellious attitude, influenced a generation of musicians and paved the way for punk rock.
Despite never achieving mainstream success, the New York Dolls left a lasting impact on the music industry. Johansen went on to reinvent himself as Buster Poindexter in the 1980s, scoring a hit with the party anthem “Hot, Hot, Hot.” He also delved into acting, appearing in several films and documentaries.
Johansen’s career was marked by reinvention and experimentation, from his early days with the Dolls to his later solo projects. He continued to perform and create until his final days, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and creativity.
In a statement to the press, family spokesperson Jeff Kilgour confirmed Johansen’s passing, revealing that the singer had been battling stage 4 cancer and a brain tumor. Johansen is survived by his wife, Mara Hennessey, and stepdaughter, Leah Hennessey.
Fans and fellow musicians have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of Johansen’s influential career. His death marks the end of an era in rock music, but his legacy will live on through his music and performances. Johansen will be remembered as a true rock ‘n’ roll pioneer and a one-of-a-kind artist.
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