John Rowan, popularly known under his moniker Blackie Onassis who had been the drummer of the famed rock band Urge Overkill for decades, has passed away.
The tragic news was confirmed on the band's social media accounts, confirming that the musician passed away. The group is now asking fans for privacy and they are sending "much love" to his family and supporters.
As of this writing, his family has yet to share an official statement regarding his passing and his cause of death remains a mystery.
Users immediately expressed their sadness on social media regarding Blackie's death, with one user writing, "Oh man, this is sad news indeed."
"I was lucky enough to meet Blackie and Nash in Lawrence, Ks in the early 90's . Both were incredibly cool and friendly. Thank you for the music and memories," one recalled.
Who Was Blackie Onassis?
According to the Los Angeles Times, the musician joined Urge Overkill in the early 1990s. He had been a part of the group since the recording of "Girl, You'll Be a Woman Soon" until their final album under a major recording label, "Exit the Dragon."
The group reportedly sounded like "scuzzy neo-hardcore punk" but when he joined them, the band had a new sound of 'suave purveyors of refurbished arena rock" per the outlet. The Chicago native's bandmates were Nash Kato and Eddie "King" Roeser.
Prior to the trio's musical era in the 90s, Urge Overkill had a completely different lineup and he mentioned in a previous interview that their mission was to "ressurect the era of the swinger" inspired by the late '60's and icons like Neil Diamond, Anton La Vey, and more.
Before their massive fame in the '90s, the original members already had two albums before Blackie joined them.
Speaking about his musician persona, the drummer said in a previous interview: "I like being Blackie Onassis; it's like living in a musical wonderland."
Urge Overkill Career
Urge Overkill had an amazing decade in the '90s as they were able to release four studio albums titled "Americruiser," "The Supersonic Storybook," "Saturation," and "Exit the Dragon."
Their fame later spread to different fandoms, especially within the Nirvana music scene, as the band made them a supporting act for their tour in 1991. Following this, they struck a deal with Geffen Records the following year.
Today, surviving members include Nash Kato, Eddie "King" Roeser, Nate Arling, and Adam Arling.
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