Dead Kennedys guitarist East Bay Ray has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, according to a statement from the band.
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The 67-year-old musician, born Raymond John Pepperell, co-founded the legendary punk band in 1978 and remains an active member to this day. The statement on Dead Kennedys’ social channels reads as follows:
“Dead Kennedys management announced today that the band’s guitarist and founding member, East Bay Ray, has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Ray says he plans to continue performing and touring with Dead Kennedys for as long as his health allows, and expresses his appreciation to everyone for their continued support.”
Dead Kennedys have a handful of West Coast dates scheduled for next month, starting with an October 6th gig in Seattle, and wrapping up with an October 11th show in Riverside, California. As mentioned in the band statement, fans can expect East Bay Ray to perform during these shows (pick up tickets here).
East Bay Ray and bassist Klaus Flouride are the two remaining founding members left in Dead Kennedys. Original frontman Jello Biafra didn’t rejoin the band when they reunited in 2001 following their breakup in 1986. Ron “Skip” Greer has handled lead vocals since 2008, while drummer Steve Wilson came aboard in 2023, following the passing of classic member D.H. Peligro.
