David Johansen, the last surviving member of the influential glam band the New York Dolls, has died at 75 in New York City, following a battle with cancer, leaving behind a lasting musical legacy.

Johansen's death marks the end of an era for a musician who helped define the glam and punk movements of the 1970s. The New York Dolls, known for their provocative style and musical innovation, paved the way for future punk bands like the Sex Pistols and the Clash, despite never achieving commercial success during their initial run. Johansen's work continued to resonate through his alter ego, Buster Poindexter, and his recent appearances, including a documentary about his life, cementing his status as a cultural icon.

Johansen passed away at his home in New York City, surrounded by his family. His battle with stage 4 cancer and a brain tumor ultimately led to his demise, leaving a significant void in the music world that he helped shape. David Johansen's presence in the industry was not just as a musician, but as a figure who challenged norms and opened doors for future generations of artists.

The New York Dolls, which formed in 1971, emerged from the vibrant music scene and quickly became known for their flamboyant aesthetics, characterized by teased hair, women's clothing, and heavy makeup. This visual presentation, coupled with their raw sound, set them apart and influenced a variety of punk bands that followed. Although their first two albums did not achieve commercial success, their artistic impact is still recognized by critics and musicians alike even decades later.

Johansen's music career began in the late 1960s with a band called the Vagabond Missionaries, but it was with the New York Dolls that he truly made his mark. Throughout the band's meteoric rise and subsequent breakup, Johansen's artistic sensibilities and performance style pushed the limits of gender representation in rock music. He aimed to create a space free from societal judgments, an effort that resonated with audiences and inspired other artists to embrace their true identities.

In addition to his role in the New York Dolls, Johansen became widely known for his alter ego, Buster Poindexter, in the 1980s. As Poindexter, he displayed his versatility as an artist, taking on a lounge singer persona that led to the hit song 'Hot Hot Hot.' This shift showcased his ability to transition between genres while maintaining a connection to his rock roots, thus expanding his artistic footprint.

The return of the New York Dolls in 2004 marked a new chapter in Johansen's career, as he reunited with surviving members to release three more studio albums and perform until 2011. This revival not only reinforced the band's legacy but also introduced their music to a new generation, allowing fans old and new to appreciate their groundbreaking contributions to the music scene.

Johansen's life and artistry were further explored in the 2023 documentary, 'Personality Crisis: One Night Only', directed by Martin Scorsese. This film depicted his journey and evolution as a musician, shedding light on his creative process and the impact he had on the music industry. It served both as a tribute to his career and as a reminder of the enduring relevance of the punk and glam movements.

Survived by his wife, Mara Hennessey, and his stepdaughter, Leah Hennessey, Johansen's family has announced several events to celebrate his life and contributions to music. These gatherings aim to honor his legacy and inspire others, reflective of Johansen's own statement about his artistic purpose: to inspire people.

As the last surviving member of the New York Dolls, his passing not only concludes the chapter of a remarkable band but also symbolizes the loss of an era characterized by bold musical innovation and defiance against societal norms. Johansen's contributions to music and culture will continue to influence and inspire artists for years to come.