Obituary, DEATH Dennis Thompson, MC5 Drummer and Last Surviving Member, Dies at 75
Dennis Thompson, the drummer for the iconic Detroit rock band MC5, passed away on May 9, 2024, at the age of 75. Thompson, also known as “Machine Gun,” was the last surviving member of the band. He passed away at MediLodge of Taylor, a care facility outside of Detroit, where he was rehabilitating following a heart attack in April. The exact cause of death has not been officially announced, but the Detroit Free Press reported that he died due to a “series of medical issues”.
The MC5 were announced as inductees for the 2024 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame class in April, just a month before Thompson’s passing. Thompson was reportedly delighted by the honor and declared “It’s about fucking time!” when the announcement was made. Thompson was pivotal to MC5’s sound, with a muscular, high-octane style that helped propel the influential Detroit band. He was nicknamed “Machine Gun” due to his aggressive style of playing.
The MC5 was formed in 1963 and prefigured punk-rock with an aggressive, thundering approach to hard rock. The band was known for its political slant and made appearances at various rallies, including the 1968 Democratic National Convention. Thompson’s death follows the passing of other MC5 members, including singer Rob Tyner in 1991, guitarist Fred “Sonic” Smith in 1994, bassist Michael Davis in 2012, guitarist and vocalist Wayne Kramer in February 2024, and manager John Sinclair on April 2, 2024.
Thompson was born in 1948 and grew up in Lincoln Park, Michigan. He joined the MC5 in 1965 and remained with the band throughout its rise and fall in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Becky Tyner, widow of MC5 vocalist Rob Tyner, recalled Thompson’s excitement and happiness upon hearing the news of the band’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
The MC5’s influence can be seen in many later punk and rock bands, and their music continues to be celebrated for its raw energy and rebellious spirit. In conclusion, Dennis Thompson’s passing marks the end of an era for the MC5 and the rock music world. His contributions to the band’s sound and legacy will be remembered and celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.
