Dead Kennedys Guitarist East Bay Ray Diagnosed With Parkinson’s Disease

East Bay Ray, the guitarist and founding member of Dead Kennedys, has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, the band announced on Tuesday, September 22. In a statement posted to their Instagram account, Dead Kennedys management expressed Ray’s intention to continue performing and touring with the band as long as his health permits, while also thanking supporters for their continued support.

Born Raymond Pepperell, Ray co-founded Dead Kennedys in San Francisco in 1978 and has been the band’s sole constant member since its inception. Known for his unique guitar work that blended punk with surf rock and other influences, Ray’s distinctive style played a crucial role in shaping the group’s sound. The band’s influential discography includes songs like “Holiday in Cambodia,” “California Über Alles” and “Kill the Poor,” as well as their iconic 1980 debut album Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables.

Despite his diagnosis, Dead Kennedys is still set to continue touring, with their upcoming schedule including performances on October 6 in Seattle, October 7 in Portland, and October 9 in San Francisco, before concluding their run on October 11 in Riverside. The band’s management emphasized that Ray’s ongoing health condition would not prevent them from fulfilling their current tour dates.