Guitarist Sylvain Sylvain dies aged 69

Sylvain Sylvain, who has died aged 69
Getty Images

Guitarist Sylvain Sylvain has passed away at the age of 69.

The musician, best known as the New York Dolls guitarist, died on Wednesday after a two-year battle with cancer, his family today confirmed.

Wanda O'Kelley Mizrahi, the star’s wife, announced the news on Facebook last night.

“Sylvain Sylvain Mizrahi Rest In Peace February 14, 1951 ~ January 13, 2021,” she wrote.

“As most of you know, Sylvain battled cancer for the past two and 1/2 years. Though he fought it valiantly, yesterday he passed away from this disease,” she added.

“While we grieve his loss, we know that he is finally at peace and out of pain. Please crank up his music, light a candle, say a prayer and let’s send this beautiful doll on his way.”

Tributes have been paid to the star.

The band in the 70s (Sylvain pictured far right)
Getty Images

Billy Idol posted an image of Sylvain on his Twitter with the words: “RIP #SylvainSylvain here with Johnny Thunders back in the ‘70’s”

Musician Todd Kerns added: “So very sorry to hear of the passing of Sylvain Sylvain. A true original with a pure Rock And Roll heart. So thankful for the time we had. I’ll be cranking up the Dolls tonight. Like most nights but tonight it’s bittersweet.”

Julie Hamil added: “Please don’t let it be true that Sylvain Sylvain has died. We had the time of our lives when he came over in 2018 for his book tour. I was told he was getting better. Don’t leave us Jet Boy.”

Born Sylvain Mizrahi in Cairo, Egypt, to Jewish parents, the family moved to New York City via Paris, France, in the 1950s.

He studied at Quintano's School for Young Professionals in Manhattan.

Before music, Mizrahi and his future New York Dolls bandmate Billy Murica ran the Truth and Soul clothing company, which is said to have influenced their individual style.

The group were known for wearing androgynous clothing - which many claimed inspired the looks of bands such as The Sex Pistols, Kiss and The Smiths.

The group recorded two albums in their first incarnation - The New York Dolls was released in 1973 and 1974's Too Much Too Soon.

They split up in 1976.  

The Smiths frontman Morrissey was behind a reunion in 2004 - with the band then releasing three more albums.

Sylvain announced in April 2019 that he was diagnosed with cancer.

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