Michael Reidy, popularly known for being one of the members of the hit power-punk band Razz from the 1970s, has died at the age of 73. What was his cause of death?
According to the Washington Post, the musician was popular during the band's prime years in the 1970s. At the time, the group brought unique guitar sounds and a rebellious edge that became a significant part of Washington, D.C.'s culture.
Reidy reportedly passed away at a hospital in his hometown on March 5, 2024. His wife, Stephanie Reidy, confirmed the tragic news that he was hospitalized following a stroke.
Michael Reidy's Influence On the Washington Culture
The outlet noted that Reidy was an integral part of Washington, D.C.'s culture when it comes to art and music. He was active in the scene for over five decades.
During the early days of his career, he worked as a blues harmonic sideman and later worked his way up to become an abstract and multimedia artist. In addition to his music, he showcased his artwork around his city.
READ ALSO: Snoop Dogg's Brother Bing Worthington Cause of Death Mysterious: Late Tour Manager Dead at 44
Later, he became a member of Razz, and the band captured the attention of record labels that wanted to sign them. Their success began when they played Reidy's songs at their bigger venues, and the musicians considered it performance art.
Although Razz is undeniably impacted, they were never signed under a record label.
Michael Reidy Life, Career Explored
According to WTOP News, Michael Reidy was born in 1950. During his early years, he grew up in a military family and spent his childhood in Camp Springs, Maryland. He graduated high school in 1968.
Razz was formed by him and his friend Bill Craig, who later became the group's guitarist. The band was established at the University of Maryland in 1971. Unfortunately, it didn't last, as it disbanded in 1979.
"He lit a spark in me, artistically... I'll miss our onstage chemistry, where we both found freedom in the ecstatic joy of rock and roll," guitarist Abaad Behram recalled of his bandmate.
Throughout their run, Reidy was popularly known for his shocking stage presence, which the public had rarely seen in a band.
There was one moment when the musician cut open a drummer's bass drum head and climbed inside; all this happened while they were having a show.
READ MORE: Remembering Toby Keith: Watch Country Legend's Final TV Performance Before Death
