Wayne Kramer, co-founder of rock band MC5, dies aged 75

Guitarist helped to give Detroit band their powerful, politically charged sound, and continued their legacy into the 21st century

Wayne Kramer, the guitarist who co-created MC5 – one of the most raw, influential and politically engaged bands in US history – has died aged 75. His Instagram page announced the news, writing: “Wayne S Kramer. Peace be with you. April 30, 1948 - February 2, 2024.”

Born and raised in Detroit, Kramer teamed with teenage friend and fellow guitarist Fred “Sonic” Smith, each of them influenced as much by free jazz as they were R&B and rock’n’roll. Topped with the frontman Rob Tyner, they made MC5 into an incendiary force in their city’s music scene, alongside peers such as the Stooges.