Guitarist Wayne Kramer, who helped found MC5, died at the age of 75. The band is still recognized today as one of the most important in US history due to its political stance and pioneering spirit. Kramer died from pancreatic cancer.
The musician's Instagram account featured two posts about his passing: "Wayne S Kramer. May peace be with you. April 30, 1948 – February 2, 2024."
The second post says, “Wayne Kramer passed away peacefully today due to pancreatic cancer. He will be remembered for starting a revolution in music and culture, and for his kindness.”
Kramer was born in Detroit where, as a teenager, he met fellow guitarist Fred “Sonic” Smith . Some time later, in Michigan, he and vocalist Rob Tyner founded MC5.
The band achieved this iconic status because of their attitude, despite only having released two studio albums: Back in the USA (1970) and High Time (1971).
MC5 disbanded in 1975 and only returned in the early 90s. After the death of the two co-founders, Kramer created a supergroup that for a time played MC5 songs. The band included Ian Astbury ( The Cult ) and Lemmy ( Motörhead ).
Over the years, several reunion tours have taken place, including the band's 50th anniversary tour in 2018 with members of Soundgarden and King's X.
Wayne Kramer was currently preparing the release of the band's highly anticipated third album, scheduled for 2024.
The music community deeply mourned his passing, with numerous expressions of grief online, including from Alice Cooper , Bruce Kulick , Tom Morell , and William DuVall .
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