John Kezdy, Effigies Singer, Dies at 64

48

Iconic Effigies Frontman, John Kezdy, Passes Away at 64

The world of punk rock has lost one of its trailblazers as John Kezdy, the distinctive voice behind Chicago punk band the Effigies, has sadly left us at the age of 64. The news of his passing, reported by Streetsblog Chicago, citing information from the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office, has left fans and the music community in mourning.

Tragedy struck on a seemingly routine day for Kezdy, who met with a fatal accident while riding his bicycle in Glencoe, Illinois. The collision with a van that was stationary in a bike lane proved to be a devastating incident that claimed the life of this punk rock legend on Saturday, August 26.

Born in 1959, John F. Kezdy’s journey into the realm of music was a captivating one, much like the energy he poured into his performances. Even as a youngster, Kezdy was magnetically drawn to the captivating sounds of rock and punk, a passion he shared with his older brother Pierre. Fate would have it that Pierre would go on to become the bassist for notable bands like Naked Raygun and Strike Under. While Kezdy might have described himself as a shy student during his time at Evanston Township High School and the University of Wisconsin, his life took an electrifying turn when he decided to seize the microphone and take center stage as the dynamic lead singer of the Effigies. This move wasn’t just about the music—it was a bold step that echoed his determination to make a difference in the world of punk.

The Effigies, a Chicago punk band that emerged in 1980, quickly made a name for themselves by infusing influences from iconic acts like Killing Joke, the Buzzcocks, and the Sex Pistols into their signature sound. Kezdy’s charismatic vocals and the band’s unique style paved the way for a distinctive take on punk and post-hardcore. With their melodies resonating with energy and attitude, Kezdy’s lyrics often delved into topics of local politics, hypocrisy, and corruption. Their debut EP, titled “Haunted Town,” which was released in 1981, not only showcased their musical prowess but also proudly embraced the Chicago flag as a symbol of underground cultural pride. Their drive was so intense that they even founded their own label, Ruthless Records, that same year, further cementing their independent spirit.

In a 1990 interview with the Chicago Tribune, Kezdy reminisced, “That first Sex Pistols record told me to get up and do it. I pumped gas to save money and dropped out of school because I had to be in a band. Most bands are afraid to stand up and say, ‘This is what I really believe in.’ The real reason to be in a band is to put yourself in a community. And if not, to create one around you.”

The years that followed saw the Effigies continue to blaze their own path. With the release of another EP in 1983 and their debut album “For Ever Grounded” in 1984, the band was gaining momentum. Seeking new horizons, they brought in Robert O’Connor as their guitarist, and they unleashed the albums “Fly on a Wire” (1985) and “Ink” (1986), both on major independent labels.

While the journey of the Effigies had its ups and downs, the band’s spirit endured. After their initial breakup in 1990, Kezdy orchestrated a reunion in the late ’90s, assembling a fresh lineup that included guitarist Chris Bjorkland, bassist Tom Woods, and drummer Joe Haggerty. The Effigies were back on stage, delivering electrifying performances and reconnecting with their dedicated fanbase. This revival led to the release of the live album “V.M.Live” in 1996, marking their triumphant return.

Kezdy’s legacy extended even further, with subsequent releases like the studio album “Reside” in 2007 and the EP “…On the Move, or in Danger (Stop) This Will Have Been My Life (Stop)” in 2012, showcasing his enduring dedication to music and the punk scene. In a brief detour, he also found time to contribute his talents to the band the Corrosives.

The punk community has lost an iconic figure, but John Kezdy’s spirit and music will forever resonate through the chords of rebellion and the anthems of the underground. As fans remember his distinctive voice and energetic presence, his words ring true: the essence of being in a band is not just about the music—it’s about creating a community, a world of your own, and standing up for what you believe in.

Rest in punk, John Kezdy. Your legacy lives on, and your songs will continue to inspire generations of punk rock enthusiasts, reminding them to embrace their individuality and raise their voices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Punk Legacy

More about Punk Legacy

• Streetsblog Chicago: Source of the news about John Kezdy’s passing and details about the accident.
• Chicago Tribune Interview: Interview where John Kezdy shares insights into his punk journey and beliefs.
• Effigies Discography: Explore the discography of the Effigies and their musical journey.
• Ruthless Records: Learn more about the independent label founded by the Effigies.
• Naked Raygun: Discover the band where John Kezdy’s older brother, Pierre, played bass.
• Minor Threat: Information about Minor Threat, whose guitarist Lyle Preslar inquired about joining the Effigies.
• Punk Rock Legacy: Explore the lasting impact and legacy of punk rock on the music world.