David Johansen, the iconic frontman of the influential 1970s proto-punk band New York Dolls, has passed away at the age of 75. He died on February 28 at his home in New York City, surrounded by his wife, Mara Hennessey, and daughter Leah, as well as an atmosphere filled with music and love. A statement confirmed that Johansen succumbed to natural causes after a lengthy illness, including a recent battle with stage 4 cancer.
Born in 1950 on Staten Island, Johansen was raised in a creative household with a librarian mother and an insurance salesman father. He often reminisced about his childhood, which was filled with biking, music, and mischief at his Catholic school. His deep connection to Staten Island was highlighted when he appeared in a food show, showcasing the culinary delights of his hometown.
Johansen’s musical journey began with a love for blues and rock’n’roll, influenced by artists like Howlin’ Wolf and Fats Domino. This passion propelled him into the New York rock scene, where he became a pivotal member of the New York Dolls, lending his voice to their self-titled debut album. The record, produced by Todd Rundgren, initially sparked mixed reactions but has since been recognized as a cornerstone of glam rock and proto-punk music.
