David Johansen, New York Dolls and Buster Pointdexter singer, dead at 75
David Johansen, the charismatic frontman of the influential protopunk band the New York Dolls and later the creator of the alter ego Buster Poindexter, has passed away at the age of 75. His death was confirmed by a family spokesperson, Jeff Kilgour, who stated that Johansen died at his home in New York City on Friday.
The news of Johansen’s deteriorating health had been shared by his stepdaughter, Leah Hennessey, earlier this year. In a statement released as part of a fundraiser for the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, Hennessey revealed that Johansen had been battling stage 4 cancer and a brain tumour. A recent fall had left him bedridden and in need of round-the-clock care.
David Johansen’s career was marked by a unique blend of music, acting, and larger-than-life personality. As the frontman of the New York Dolls, he helped shape the sound and style of protopunk in the early 1970s. The band’s energetic mix of early ’60s pop sensibility and late ’60s fast-metal anarchy earned them a cult following and influenced generations of rock musicians.
Despite internal conflicts and struggles with addiction within the band, the New York Dolls made a lasting impact on the music scene. Their songs, including “Personality Crisis” and “Human Being,” became punk rock anthems and were covered by artists ranging from Sonic Youth to Guns ‘n’ Roses.
Johansen’s larger-than-life persona and androgynous style set him apart from his bandmates, earning him comparisons to Mick Jagger and a reputation as a true rock ‘n’ roll icon. His theatrical flair and magnetic stage presence made him a standout figure in the New York music scene.
After the dissolution of the New York Dolls, Johansen embarked on a solo career and later reinvented himself as Buster Poindexter, a lounge singer persona that catapulted him to mainstream success. Hits like “Hot Hot Hot” brought him commercial acclaim and allowed him to showcase his versatile musical talents.
In addition to his music career, Johansen also dabbled in acting, with memorable roles in films like “Scrooged” alongside Bill Murray. His eclectic career spanned decades and saw him collaborate with a wide range of artists and musicians.
David Johansen’s passing marks the end of an era for rock ‘n’ roll and the New York music scene. His legacy as a pioneering artist and larger-than-life personality will continue to inspire and influence generations of musicians to come. Johansen will be remembered as a true original and a trailblazer in the world of music.
