1. Wayne Kramer, Guitarist & Co-Founder of MC5
2. Wayne Kramer, MC5 Co-Founder and Guitarist.
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Influential Guitarist and MC5 Co-Founder Wayne Kramer Passes Away at 75
Wayne Kramer, the influential guitarist and co-founder of the legendary Detroit punk band MC5, has sadly passed away at the age of 75. The news was confirmed through his official social media pages, although the cause of death has not been disclosed at this time. Kramer was not only known for his incredible musical talent but also for his dedication to social activism.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, Kramer’s passion for music began at an early age. In the early ’60s, he formed a close friendship with guitarist Fred “Sonic” Smith, and together they embarked on a musical journey that would lead to the formation of MC5. The band also included bassist Michael Davis and drummer Dennis Thompson, and they quickly gained recognition by regularly performing at Detroit’s renowned Grande Ballroom.
It was at the Grande Ballroom that MC5 crossed paths with John Sinclair, a political writer and leader of the White Panther Party. Sinclair became their manager, and the band became closely associated with the White Panthers, using their music as a platform for radical political activism. In 1968, MC5 released their debut album “Kick Out the Jams” under Elektra Records, solidifying their place in rock history.
Speaking about MC5’s impact, fellow Detroit native and rocker Alice Cooper once shared, “When we went to Detroit and played this big Saugatuck Rock Festival, Iggy & the Stooges and the MC5 were on the bill. When we saw the MC5, wow, they were a show band, a great, in-your-face act. Wayne Kramer? He was a White Panther, and went to jail for his work in Detroit — and plays better than he ever did.”
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MC5 went on to record two more albums, “Back in the USA” and “High Time,” but unfortunately faced radio bans in the early ’70s, leading to the band’s eventual breakup. In 1975, Kramer formed the R&B band Radiation alongside Melvin Davis, but the project was short-lived after Kramer was convicted of selling drugs to undercover federal agents and served time in prison.
Despite the setbacks, Kramer’s passion for music and social activism never waned. In the ’90s, he embarked on a successful solo career and released several albums under Epitaph Records. In 2001, Kramer and his wife Margaret Saadi Kramer founded the MuscleTon label, further expanding their musical endeavors.
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In recent years, Kramer returned to his MC5 roots, performing alongside Jane’s Addiction drummer Stephen Perkins. He also made a name for himself in the world of film and television, composing memorable scores for movies such as “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby” and “Step Brothers,” both starring Will Ferrell.
The passing of Wayne Kramer is a significant loss for the music industry and the world of activism. His contributions to rock music and his unwavering commitment to social change will always be remembered.
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– Wayne Kramer, Guitarist & Co-Founder of MC5 Dies at 75
– Wayne Kramer, MC5 Co-Founder and Guitarist, Passes Away at 75.
