Posted on 02/11/2025 8:56:29 AM PST by Red Badger
The legendary rock singer and iconic figure of glam rock, David Johansen, whose indelible influence stretches through his time with New York Dolls to his alter ego as Buster Poindexter, has revealed the distressing details of his battle with stage 4 cancer. Johansen's diagnosis includes a brain tumor, a condition he bravely kept private since 2020. He remained active and engaged with friends and family for as long as his condition allowed. His battle, however, escalated to a new level of urgency following a serious fall in November 2024, which resulted in his back breaking in two places. The severity of his injuries, coupled with an already debilitating illness, has left him entirely bedridden and incapacitated, necessitating 24-hour care.
Faced with these challenging circumstances, Johansen, at the age of 75, expressed his pain candidly, acknowledging the unprecedented suffering he endures. In what he describes as the greatest agony of his life, Johansen has reached a point where he finds it essential to seek assistance. Maintaining his characteristic humility, he admitted to the difficulty of asking for help, but emphasized the urgency and necessity of doing so in light of his situation. As a response, the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund has come to his aid, launching the David Johansen Fund. This fund is intended to meet the extensive costs associated with his medical needs, including round-the-clock nursing, physical therapy, and essential living expenses. Fans and supporters are also offered the chance to contribute to his recovery through the purchase of a specially designed T-shirt, with proceeds directed towards his treatment.
The Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, led by Aric Steinberg, views their involvement in Johansen's recovery as an honor. They recognize the profound impact of his artistic contributions to the music world and are dedicated to supporting him through this difficult period. Steinberg conveyed confidence that Johansen's legacy and his community would inspire substantial backing, as he called upon his fans and fellow artists to rally together to support a man whose artistry has left a lasting imprint across multiple generations.
David Johansen's life and career have been remarkable, highlighted by his pioneering role as the lead singer and songwriter of the New York Dolls, a band celebrated for its punk and glam rock ethos. Beyond his iconic performances with the Dolls, Johansen reinvented himself in the music industry time and time again. In the 1980s, he gained further recognition under the persona of Buster Poindexter, showcasing his versatility and passion for various musical styles, including blues and folk.
Adding another dimension to Johansen's artistic legacy is the documentary by Martin Scorsese, Personality Crisis: One Night Only, which encapsulates his dynamic life and career. The documentary, released on streaming platforms, provides a vivid testament to Johansen's impact and character, capturing his voice and narrative at a pivotal moment in his life.
As Johansen confronts this critical phase, support from the fund will enable him to secure the specialized care necessary to improve his quality of life. The veteran artist remains hopeful, holding onto the possibility of regaining some level of autonomy through the help of professional medical expertise. This hope is shared by his family and supporters who are committed to aiding his fight against cancer.
To Donate to the David Johansen Fund Click Here
I just remember him as Buster. Whenever I hear the song, Baby It’s Cold Outside, I think of Buster and Sigourney Weaver on SNL - it was the first time I heard the song. Prayers up, sir.
Sad news. I was never a specific fan, but he was significant in his day.
Never heard of him. There’s money his business. Why does he need it?
75 years old. I’d accept the inevitable but that’s me.
He had a hit single as Buster Poindexter, “Hot, Hot, Hot!”
He played the hitman hired to kill a cat in Tales from the Darkside: The Movie.................
Oh, I remember Buster Poindexter - “Hot Hot Hot.”
Sorry to hear this news.
My main memory of his career is the Animals Medley that was in the regular rotation in the early days of MTV. (That was also my introduction to The Animals, who were mostly before my time.)
I remember Hot, Hot, Hot.
“Trash. Don’t pick it up! Don’t take my life a-way!”
Actually saw David J perform a million years ago in a very small club where you sat on sofas. His big song was Funky But Chic. He was sort of a lesser Mick Jagger, and a bit of a wild man. Tons of energy. My date was extremely conservative, and I think he contributed to that relationship going nowhere.
Great memories.
I always liked the NY Dolls. They didn’t have great instrumental chops but could write some really good songs and David was a good singer/frontman.
Never heard of him or the New York Dolls, but maybe that’s because I can’t stand “glam rock,” which I regard as having been a steppingstone to today’s trans movement.
They basically, invented it.................
Sad news. I was never a specific fan, but he was significant in his day.
I agree
“My main memory of his career is the Animals Medley that was in the regular rotation in the early days of MTV.”
Yes, he did a good job on the medley. I had his 1978 self titled album, favorites off that album were ‘Funky But Chic’, ‘Not That Much’ and ‘Frenchette’.
He was a rocker.
bkmk
I have their debut album...............
If I’m not mistaken he was in the supporting band on a Bob Dylan Tour.
I saw him/them at the Adler Theater in Davenport Iowa. I can’t say it was a great concert. Guessing (and could be off by a long ways) it was around 2000
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