Cheetah Chrome, punk rock guitarist, dies at 71

Cheetah Chrome, the influential guitarist for punk bands the Dead Boys and Rocket from the Tombs, died on September 13, 2026, at age 71. The Dead Boys announced his death on Instagram, but no cause was given. Chrome, born Eugene Richard O'Connor in Cleveland, Ohio, helped shape punk rock with his aggressive guitar style. He joined Rocket from the Tombs in 1974 and later formed the Dead Boys, who became icons at CBGB in New York City. His music influenced many artists, and tributes came from musicians like Duff McKagan.