Iconic sports anthem creator, a rock musician, dies at age 82
Rock music has sadly lost one of its iconic figures as Larry Tamblyn, known for the legendary sports anthem, has passed away at the age of 82. The Standells, a garage rock band, confirmed the news of Tamblyn’s death over the weekend, although the cause of his passing was not disclosed.
In a heartfelt tribute, Tamblyn’s nephew Dennis shared fond memories of his uncle in a now-deleted post, highlighting Tamblyn’s remarkable life and musical legacy. Tamblyn was a core member of The Standells, a band that gained fame in the 1960s with hits like “Dirty Water.” This particular song, released in 1966, became a sports favorite, often played at Red Sox, Bruins, and Celtics games, celebrating the teams’ victories.
The Standells, originally comprising Tamblyn as the lead singer, along with Tony Valentino, Jody Rich, and Benny King, rose to prominence in Los Angeles during the ’60s. Despite lineup changes over the years, the band’s appeal remained strong, thanks to hits like “Dirty Water,” which climbed to No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
After departing from The Standells, Tamblyn pursued a solo career while also documenting his experiences in the band in his autobiography released in 2022, titled “From Squeaky Clean to Dirty Water: My Life with Sixties Garage Rock Trailblazers the Standells.” Apart from his music career, Tamblyn also made appearances on screen, joining The Standells on an episode of “The Munsters” and featuring in the 1967 film “Riot on Sunset Strip.”
Tamblyn’s connections to Hollywood were not limited to his music exploits, as his brother Russ Tamblyn starred in the acclaimed film “West Side Story,” while his niece, Amber Tamblyn, carved out a successful acting career in TV shows and movies like “General Hospital,” “Two and a Half Men,” and “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants.”
Amidst the outpouring of condolences for Tamblyn’s family, Amber Tamblyn expressed her gratitude for the support during this challenging time and praised her uncle’s songwriting talents. The legacy of Larry Tamblyn and The Standells continues to resonate with fans, transcending generations and genres in the world of rock music. Their contributions to the industry and impact on popular culture remain timeless, ensuring that their music will forever hold a cherished place in the hearts of fans worldwide.
As the music community mourns the loss of a trailblazing talent, Tamblyn’s influence and legacy will endure through the timeless tunes and enduring spirit of rock and roll. May Larry Tamblyn, the rock musician behind the iconic sports anthem, rest in peace, leaving behind a musical legacy that will continue to inspire and resonate for years to come.