Eugene Richard O’Connor, professionally known as Cheetah Chrome, has passed away at the age of 71. The guitarist’s death occurred on Sunday, with the news shared by his bandmates from the Dead Boys through an Instagram post confirming the loss of their longtime collaborator.
Cheetah Chrome played a significant role in shaping the punk rock genre as a guitarist and founding member of the Dead Boys. Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, he began his music career with Rocket from the Tombs in 1974 before transitioning to Frankenstein alongside Dead Boys members Stiv Bators and Johnny Blitz. The group eventually became the Dead Boys and released two albums: “Young, Loud and Snotty” in 1977 and “We Have Come for Your Children” in 1978. The band dissolved in 1979 but reunited periodically for live performances throughout the years.
According to his bandmates’ statement, Cheetah Chrome was remembered as an innovative musician whose energetic guitar work and distinctive style left a lasting impact on rock and roll. The Dead Boys had planned to tour their debut album during 2027 to mark its 50th anniversary. O’Connor is survived by his wife Anna and their 14-year-old son Rogan, both residing in Nashville.
Originally reported by Variety →
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