Eugene Richard O’Connor, better known as Cheetah Chrome, has passed away at the age of 71. The American musician was best known as the guitarist of the influential punk rock band Dead Boys.News of his death was confirmed by Dead Boys on Instagram on Sunday. The band remembered Cheetah Chrome for his contribution to punk rock and described him as an “architect of the punk rock movement.”
Dead Boys pay tribute to Cheetah Chrome
Dead Boys announced the death of their longtime guitarist in a social media statement. The band described Cheetah Chrome as a distinctive musician whose energetic guitar playing became part of the group’s identity.“We are incredibly sad to announce the news of the passing of our beloved friend and bandmate Cheetah Chrome. Cheetah was a true original, an architect of the punk rock movement.A one-man hurricane tearing up the musical landscape with his feral guitar riffs and manic energy. Beyond all that Cheetah was also just a really sweet guy that loved rock-roll. We extend our deepest condolences to Cheetah’s family, friends and fans around the world. His music lives on and will continue to inspire others for generations to come. We ask for privacy during this difficult time. Godspeed Cheetah. Tony, Chris, Mark and the entire Dead Boys family,” wrote Dead Boys.Cheetah Chrome is survived by his wife, Anna O’Connor, and their 14-year-old son, Rogan. The family resides in Nashville.Following the announcement, fans took to X to remember the guitarist and his work with Dead Boys. One fan highlighted his musicianship and the band’s importance to American punk rock. “He was a damn good guitarist. The Dead Boys are quintessential American punk rock. Top of the mountain.”Another fan remembered one of Cheetah Chrome’s best-known songs while paying tribute to him.”Ain’t it fun is one of my all-time jams. R.I.P..” Another fan shared a personal memory of meeting Cheetah Chrome and Johnny Blitz in Harlingen, Texas, in 2018. The fan recalled how the musicians spent time with them and even provided an autograph.“RIP Cheetah Chrome of the Dead Boys. Got a chance to see and meet Cheetah & Johnny Blitz of Dead Boys back in 2018 in Harlingen, Tx , they were kind enough and patient enough to hangout w me for a bit, give me a shoutout on my YouTube channel & an autograph. Thank you Cheetah…”
Cheetah Chrome’s punk rock journey
According to Variety, Cheetah Chrome was born in Cleveland, Ohio, and was later based in Nashville. His professional music journey began in 1974 when he became a guitarist for Rocket from the Tombs. He subsequently formed Frankenstein with Stiv Bators and Johnny Blitz. The group eventually developed into Dead Boys.
Dead Boys’ albums and 2027 plans
Dead Boys released their debut studio album, ‘Young, Loud and Snotty’, in 1977. Their second album, ‘We Have Come for Your Children’, followed in 1978. The group split up in 1979 after releasing the two albums. Dead Boys later reunited for various live performances but did not release another studio album.The band had also been preparing to commemorate the 50th anniversary of its debut album. As part of the plans, Dead Boys were scheduled to tour ‘Young, Loud and Snotty’ in 2027.
