Wayne Kramer, co-founder of the influential band MC5, has died at the age of 75, according to an announcement on his Instagram page. Born and raised in Detroit, Kramer played a vital role in shaping the city’s music scene with his raw and politically charged music.
Alongside guitarist Fred “Sonic” Smith and frontman Rob Tyner, Kramer formed MC5, which quickly gained a reputation for their revolutionary sound. In 1968, the band signed with Elektra and released their debut album, Kick Out the Jams, in the following year. The album showcased their heavy guitar sound and included the iconic phrase “kick out the jams,” which went on to become a symbol of resistance and had a significant impact on the punk rock genre.
Following their initial success, MC5 actively protested against the Vietnam War and the Democratic National Convention, using their platform to voice their revolutionary and working-class roots. Despite their strong political message, the band faced commercial failures after releasing two studio albums, Back in the USA and High Time, and ultimately disbanded in 1972.
Kramer’s personal life took a tumultuous turn after MC5’s breakup. He struggled with drug addiction and faced a prison sentence in 1975. However, after his release in 1979, Kramer found renewed passion for music. He joined the funk-rock band Was (Not Was) and embarked on a solo career in the mid-90s.
In 2001, Kramer formed a supergroup to perform MC5’s music, ensuring that the spirit of the band remained alive. Through various iterations and tours, Kramer continued to captivate audiences with his energetic performances. At the time of his death, he was preparing to release a long-awaited third studio album from MC5.
In addition to his musical contributions, Kramer co-created the US branch of Billy Bragg’s Jail Guitar Doors initiative, which aims to provide musical instruments for prison inmates as a form of rehabilitation.
Following the news of Kramer’s passing, tributes poured in from fellow musicians. Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine described Kramer as the “best man” he’s ever known, praising his wisdom, compassion, empathy, and conviction.
Wayne Kramer leaves behind a rich musical legacy and a profound impact on the punk rock genre. His dedication to his craft and his unwavering belief in the power of music as a force for change will continue to inspire future generations of musicians and activists.
“Prone to fits of apathy. Devoted music geek. Troublemaker. Typical analyst. Alcohol practitioner. Food junkie. Passionate tv fan. Web expert.”