Wayne Kramer, the guitarist and co-founder of MC5, has died. He was 75.
Kramer and MC5's official social media pages delivered the heartbreaking news about the guitarist's death in separate statements, sharing that the musician passed away on Friday, February 2.
What Was Wayne Kramer's Cause of Death?
Kramer's Instagram page uploaded a black and white photo of the musician alongside the text, "'PEACE BE WITH YOU' April 30, 1948 - February 2, 2024."
His friends, fans, followers and colleagues left heartfelt tributes on the post and paid respect to Kramer after his passing.
One said, "Beyond broken hearted ...... Wayne you inspired me my since the MC5 hit the scene . I will cherish all the incredible memories and so thankful for my friendship with you and Margaret . I love you both so dearly . I know you will be watching Francis as carries the torch."
"Wayne - Brother Wayne. Thank you for all you did for everybody, including me. Love you and your family forever," another added.
A third wrote, "Thank you for the music and fueling my teenage rebellion! Fly on Brother Wayne."
Meanwhile, MC5's page disclosed that Kramer died of pancreatic cancer. The band asked everyone who wanted to donate to help his nonprofit organization, Jail Guitar Doors, instead.
Details about his funeral have not been released.
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Wayne Kramer's Career With MC5
Kramer and his original bandmates were teenagers when they formed MC5, but they worked hard to be in the spotlight starting with their gigs at Detroit's Grande Ballroom.
The group marked its debut in 1969 with the live, "Kick Out the Jams." They released more follow-ups in the years thereafter: "Back in the U.S.A," "High Time," "Teenage Lust," "Looking at You," "66 Breakout," "Part Of The Problem Or Part Of The Solution," "Purity Accuracy" and "Total Assault."
Throughout the band's active career years, it attracted government harassment and radio backlash due to the songs it released. MC5 also went through a breakup when Kramer was sentenced to four-year in prison after selling drugs to undercover federal agents.
After serving his jail time, he returned to the spotlight with other musicians.
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