Legendary MC5 Co-Founder Wayne Kramer Dies at 75
The world of rock music mourns the loss of Wayne Kramer, the co-founder of the iconic Detroit rock band MC5. Considered one of the greatest guitarists of all time, Kramer passed away at the age of 75. The news of his death was announced on Friday afternoon through his official social media channels, leaving fans and fellow musicians devastated.
Kramer’s close friend and executive director of his nonprofit organization Jail Guitar Doors, Jason Heath, revealed that the legendary guitarist died at Cedars-Sinai hospital in Los Angeles. The cause of death was pancreatic cancer, a battle that Kramer fought bravely until the end.
The MC5, formed by Kramer in Lincoln Park, Michigan, during the 1960s, quickly became a symbol of anti-establishment and counterculture. Their music was a powerful blend of rock and punk, making them one of the most influential American bands of their time. Their debut album, “Kick Out the Jams,” recorded at Detroit’s Grande Ballroom in 1969, is considered a protopunk masterpiece and has been listed multiple times in Rolling Stone’s prestigious list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.
Despite his age, Kramer remained active in recent years. He embarked on tours as part of the MC50, alongside renowned musicians such as Soundgarden’s Kim Thayil and Matt Cameron, Faith No More bassist Billy Gould, and Zen Guerilla singer Marcus Durant. In 2022, he announced the formation of We Are All MC5, a touring project that aimed to revive the spirit of the groundbreaking band.
Kramer’s contributions extended beyond his musical career. He served as the executive producer of Jail Guitar Doors, a nonprofit organization that provided musical instruments and mentorship to incarcerated individuals. Kramer’s personal experience with incarceration, stemming from a drug charge in the 1970s, fueled his passion for helping others through the power of music.
Known affectionately as “Brother Wayne,” Kramer was known for his collaborations with fellow musicians, including his MC5 bandmates following the group’s breakup in the early 1970s. In a memorable 1992 memorial performance for late vocalist Rob Tyner, Kramer reunited with MC5 guitarist Fred “Sonic” Smith, bassist Michael Davis, and drummer Dennis Thompson. The loss of Smith in 1994 and Davis in 2012 added to the sorrow that surrounded the band’s legacy.
In addition to his work with MC5 and subsequent projects, Kramer enjoyed a successful solo career with several releases. In 2018, he released his memoir titled “The Hard Stuff: Dope, Crime, the MC5, and My Life of Impossibilities,” which received critical acclaim and won him a Michigan’s Notable Book Award.
The news of Wayne Kramer’s passing elicited an outpouring of emotional tributes from both fellow musicians and devoted fans. Tom Morello, guitarist of Rage Against the Machine, took to Instagram to express his admiration for Kramer. Morello described him as “the greatest man I’ve ever known,” highlighting his wisdom, compassion, and unwavering conviction. He also acknowledged MC5’s pivotal role in punk rock history, noting their fearless performance for rioting protestors at the 1968 Democratic National Convention. Morello concluded his tribute by emphasizing Kramer’s unique blend of strength and sensitivity, stating that he was “Detroit tough as nails” but possessed a soft heart.
Detroit musician Paul Randolph, who recently collaborated with Kramer on Alice Cooper’s album “Detroit Stories,” also paid tribute to the late guitarist. He praised Kramer’s eclectic musical taste, sense of humor, and unmatched wit, emphasizing the impact he had on the music scene.
Wayne Kramer’s legacy will forever be etched in the annals of rock music history. His groundbreaking work with MC5, his dedication to helping incarcerated individuals through Jail Guitar Doors, and his influential solo career have left an indelible mark on the industry. As the world mourns the loss of this legendary guitarist, his music will continue to inspire generations to come.
