David Johansen, Who Fronted the New York Dolls and More, Dies at 75

David Johansen, the charismatic frontman of the influential rock band the New York Dolls, has passed away at the age of 75. Johansen, who was known for his flamboyant style and powerful stage presence, was a key figure in the New York City punk and glam rock scenes of the 1970s.

Born in Staten Island, New York in 1950, Johansen began his music career in the late 1960s as a member of the band The Vagabond Missionaries. In 1971, he co-founded the New York Dolls, a group that would go on to become one of the most beloved and influential bands of the era. With their raucous, high-energy live shows and catchy, hard-edged rock ‘n’ roll tunes, the Dolls quickly gained a loyal following and helped to define the sound and style of the burgeoning punk rock movement.

Johansen’s flamboyant, androgynous stage persona – complete with high heels, makeup, and outlandish outfits – became a signature element of the band’s image. His powerful, gravelly voice and dynamic stage presence made him a magnetic frontman, and helped to set the Dolls apart from their peers.

After the Dolls disbanded in 1977, Johansen embarked on a successful solo career, releasing a series of albums under his own name and also adopting the persona of Buster Poindexter for a more tongue-in-cheek, cabaret-style act. He continued to perform and record music throughout the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, collaborating with a wide range of musicians and exploring a variety of musical styles.

In addition to his music career, Johansen also found success as an actor, appearing in films such as “Scrooged” and “Let It Ride,” as well as on television shows like “Miami Vice” and “The Adventures of Pete and Pete.”

Throughout his long and varied career, Johansen remained a beloved and respected figure in the music world, known for his talent, his creativity, and his larger-than-life personality. His influence can be heard in the work of countless bands and artists who have followed in his footsteps, and his impact on the world of rock ‘n’ roll will continue to be felt for years to come.

David Johansen will be remembered as a true rock ‘n’ roll icon, a trailblazer who helped to shape the sound and style of an entire generation. His music, his energy, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of his fans and in the annals of rock history. Rest in peace, David Johansen – you will be sorely missed.