Cheetah Chrome, Guitarist for the Dead Boys and Rocket From the Tombs, Dead at 71
The prolific musician, who also played with Syl Sylvain and Ronnie Spector, was remembered as an "an architect of the punk rock movement"
Eugene Richard O’Connor, better known as Cheetah Chrome, the co-founding guitarist of the iconic Cleveland punk band the Dead Boys, has passed away at the age of 71. The band announced his death on Instagram on September 13th, expressing their deep sorrow. O’Connor was described as a "true original, an architect of the punk rock movement" with his "feral guitar riffs and manic energy."
He was not only a talented musician but also a kind-hearted individual who loved rock 'n' roll. The band extended their condolences to O’Connor's family, friends, and fans worldwide, asking for privacy during this challenging time. O’Connor's music continues to inspire, and he is remembered with a final message of "Godspeed Cheetah."
Initially forming the proto-punk band Rocket from the Tombs, O’Connor joined the Dead Boys with fellow members Stiv Bators and Johnny Madansky. They released two albums before disbanding in 1980. O’Connor went on to embark on various solo projects, session work, and even toured with GG Allin. The Dead Boys reunited multiple times over the years, including in 1987, 2004, and 2017.
O’Connor documented his life in a memoir titled "Cheetah Chrome: A Dead Boy’s Tale from the Front Lines of Punk Rock" and was portrayed by Rupert Grint in the 2013 film "CBGB."
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- Cheetah Chrome, Dead Boys Co-Founder and Guitarist, Dead at 71 consequence.net
- Dead Boys Guitarist Cheetah Chrome Dies at 71 variety.com
