Howie Pyro, the punk rocker arguably best known for his work a member of the ’90s punk band D Generation, died today. His representative confirmed the news in a statement, saying he died of complications from COVID-19-related pneumonia following a liver transplant and liver disease. He was 61.
Pyro was part of the New York City punk scene in the 1970s as a member of the underage band the Blessed, who played Max’s Kansas City and CBGB. After D Generation released their 1994 self-titled debut, they signed to Columbia for the follow-ups: 1996’s No Lunch and 1998’s Through the Darkness. The band remained active in recent years; their final album was 2016’s Nothing Is Anywhere.
In addition to his work with D Generation, Pyro was a prolific collaborator. He worked with artists including Danzig, Johnny Thunders, Rancid, Joey Ramone, the Misfits, Debbie Harry, Alan Vega, Kid Congo Powers, and others. He was also the DJ behind the 45 RPM-focused radio show Intoxica! Radio.
His family is requesting that those wishing to pay tribute consider donating to the UCLA Division of Liver and Pancreas Transplantation. He will be laid to rest at Hollywood Forever Cemetery.
