Erick Purkhiser, better known as Lux Interior of The Cramps died today according to his publicist. (We originally go the story from The Daily Swarm who said he passed over the weekend). We won't even try to compete with The Swarm's post, which is chock-full of YouTubey goodness, but this is certainly a sad day for fans of the CBGB scene, protopunk and psychobilly. Purkhiser is also from my hometown of Akron, Ohio, so I'll always have a special place in my heart for him. By the way, no one has added the death date to his wikipedia article. Go ahead, live an Onion story... The full press release is on the jump.
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.
