Dead Kennedys guitarist East Bay Ray diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease — Rolling Stone
East Bay Ray, guitarist and co-founder of the punk band Dead Kennedys, has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. The band’s management announced this on social media, Rolling Stone reports.
Plans to continue performing
In a statement, Dead Kennedys said that Ray plans to continue performing concerts and touring with the band for as long as his health allows. The musician also thanked listeners for their support.
The band has concerts scheduled on the West Coast from October 6 to 11. The tour will begin with a performance in Seattle at Showbox at the Market and end with a concert in Riverside at Riverside Municipal Auditorium. An Instagram post said that Ray would perform if his health condition permits.
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History and lineup of the band
East Bay Ray co-founded Dead Kennedys in 1978 and remains a member of the group. The band ceased activities in 1986 and reunited in 2001. Along with Ray, the lineup includes original bassist Klaus Flouride.
Ron “Skip” Greer has been Dead Kennedys’ vocalist since 2008. Drummer Steve Wilson joined the band after the death of longtime drummer D. H. Peligro in 2022.
Earlier this year, the band’s founder and former vocalist Jello Biafra suffered a stroke. He did not return to the lineup after the 2001 reunion. In May, a post on his Facebook page said that he was recovering, his speech had largely returned, and weakness on his left side was decreasing.
