David Johansen, lead singer of the influential punk band New York Dolls, passes away at 75
David Johansen, the distinctive, gravelly-voiced frontman of the iconic band the New York Dolls, who later transformed into the flamboyant Buster Poindexter persona, passed away at the age of 75 in his New York City residence. Johansen’s death came after news emerged early in 2025 of his battle with stage 4 cancer and a brain tumor.
The New York Dolls, who paved the way for punk rock, were known for their androgynous flair and played a significant role in inspiring the glam music revolution that later influenced bands like Faster Pussycat and Motley Crue. Johansen’s artistic mission to inspire others to achieve greatness was reflected in his words to The Knoxville News-Sentinel in 2011, “When you’re an artist, the main thing you want to do is inspire people, so if you succeed in doing that, it’s pretty gratifying.”
Despite Rolling Stone labeling the Dolls as “the mutant children of the hydrogen age” and Vogue hailing them as the “darlings of downtown style,” the band faced struggles with internal conflicts and drug dependence, leading to their dissolution after just two albums. A 2004 reunion at the Meltdown Festival initiated by Morrissey, a devoted fan of the Dolls, ignited a new era for the band, culminating in the production of three additional studio albums.
In a remarkable reinvention in the 1980s, Johansen embraced a new persona as Buster Poindexter, a stylish lounge singer known for the popular and infectious song, “Hot, Hot, Hot” in 1987. His foray into acting included roles in films like “Candy Mountain,” “Let It Ride,” and “Married To The Mob,” as well as a memorable appearance as the Ghost of Christmas Past in “Scrooged.”
Johansen’s multifaceted career was later captured in the documentary “Personality Crisis: One Night Only” by Martin Scorsese and David Tedeschi, combining footage from a 2020 performance at Cafe Carlyle with reflections on his illustrious journey. Reflecting on his approach to music, Johansen shared with The Associated Press in 2023, “Just sing the (expletive) song. With whatever you got.”
Hailing from a modest upbringing in Staten Island, Johansen’s early love for a diverse range of music, including R&B, Cuban, and rock legends like Janis Joplin and Otis Redding, fueled his passion for performance. The Dolls’ unique brand of music and style, influenced by figures like Lou Reed and Andy Warhol, captivated audiences, though commercial success proved elusive for the band.
With songs like “Personality Crisis,” “Looking For A Kiss,” and “Frankenstein,” the Dolls built a devoted following with their blend of pop stardom and streetwise sensibilities, creating a safe haven for fans seeking connection in a rigid social landscape. Johansen’s legacy lives on through his groundbreaking work with the New York Dolls and his enduring impact on the music industry.