Eugene Richard O’Connor, better known as Chrome the Cheetah, has died at the age of 71. The American musician was best known as the guitarist for the influential punk rock band Dead Boys.News of his death was confirmed by Dead Boys on Instagram on Sunday. The band remembered Cheetah Chrome for his contributions to punk rock and called him “the architect of the punk rock movement.”
Dead Boys Pay Tribute to Cheetah Chrome
The Dead Boys announced the death of their longtime guitarist in a statement on social media. The band described Cheetah Chrome as an outstanding musician whose energetic guitar playing became part of the band’s identity.“We are incredibly sad to announce the passing of our beloved friend and bandmate Cheetah Chrome. Cheetah was a true original, an architect of the punk rock movement.A lone hurricane tearing up the musical landscape with his wild guitar riffs and manic energy. Besides all this, Chita was just a very nice guy who loved rock roll. We express our deepest condolences to Chita’s family, friends and fans around the world. His music lives on and will continue to inspire others for generations to come. We ask for privacy during this difficult time. God bless you, Cheetah. Tony, Chris, Mark and the entire Dead Boys family,” the Dead Boys wrote.Cheetah Chrom is survived by his wife Anna O’Connor and their 14-year-old son Rogan. The family lives in Nashville.Following the announcement, fans took to X to remember the guitarist and his work with the Dead Boys. One fan emphasized his musicality and the band’s importance to American punk rock. “He was a damn good guitar player. The Dead Boys are typical American punk rock. Top of the mountain.”Another fan remembered one of Cheetah Chrome’s most famous songs while paying tribute to one of Cheetah Chrome’s most famous songs. Another fan shared a personal memory of meeting Cheetah Chrome and Johnny Blitz in Harlingen, Texas in 2018. The fan remembered how the musicians spent time with them, and even gave an autograph.“Rest in peace Cheetah Chrome from the Dead Boys. I had the opportunity to see and meet Cheetah and Johnny Blitz of the Dead Boys back in 2018 in Harlingen, Texas, they were kind and patient enough to chat with me a little, compliment me on my YouTube channel, and sign an autograph. Thank you, Chita…”
Cheetah Chrome’s Punk Rock Journey
According to Variety, Chita Chrome was born in Cleveland, Ohio and later settled in Nashville. His professional musical journey began in 1974, when he became the guitarist for the band Rocket from the Tombs. He subsequently formed the band Frankenstein with Stiv Bators and Johnny Blitz. Over time, the group evolved into the Dead Boys.
Dead Boys albums and plans for 2027
The Dead Boys released their debut studio album, Young, Loud and Snotty, in 1977. Their second album, We Have Come for Your Children, was released in 1978. The group disbanded in 1979 after releasing two albums. The Dead Boys later reunited for various live performances, but never released another studio album.The band was also preparing to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their debut album. The Dead Boys were scheduled to embark on the Young, Loud and Snotty Tour in 2027.