For Immediate Release:
February 4, 2009
Lux Interior, lead singer of The Cramps, passed away this morning due to an existing heart condition at Glendale Memorial Hospital in Glendale, California at 4:30 AM PST today. Lux has been an inspiration and influence to millions of artists and fans around the world. He and wife Poison Ivy’s contributions with The Cramps have had an immeasurable impact on modern music.
The Cramps emerged from the original New York punk scene of CBGB and Max’s Kansas City, with a singular sound and iconography. Their distinct take on rockabilly and surf along with their midnight movie imagery reminded us all just how exciting, dangerous, vital and sexy rock and roll should be and has spawned entire subcultures. Lux was a fearless frontman who transformed every stage he stepped on into a place of passion, abandon, and true freedom. He is a rare icon who will be missed dearly.
The family requests that you respect their privacy during this difficult time. Wow, that is really sad news. I first saw the Cramps in 78 when they opened for the 1st Clash show in NYC. They were part of the Clash's "Pearl Harbor Tour." To this day the best show I have ever seen. Totally blown away by the Cramps. No bass but what a sound! The look of the band. The songs.
Drop by the Boulevard Tavern in Greenpoint on a Tuesday when I spin and I'll show you my Human Fly 45 with a glow in the dark logo.
Other Cramps shows I will always remember:
Leeds UK Sept 81
Peppermint Lounge NYC 1980
Irving Plaza 1979 (live midnight broadcast for WPIX-FM)
Irving Plaza 2004. Here are some shots from that gig.
