Spending Time with David Johansen to Celebrate His Birthday – By Roadie Ames
In honor of what would have been David Johansen’s 76th birthday today on January 9, I reflect on my cherished memories of working closely with David and the iconic New York Dolls during their Summer Tour in 2011. As the stage manager, guitar tech, and backup vocalist, I had the privilege of traversing the country with this legendary band, a journey that spanned June 7th to August 17th with a total of 50 exhilarating shows, marking the band’s final performances in the United States. Witnessing David Johansen and Sylvain Sylvain, along with Earl Slick and Kenny Aaronson, masterfully perform together on stage was a sight to behold.
Over the course of this extensive tour, I found myself in awe not only of the seasoned musicianship displayed by the band but also of the camaraderie and spirit that defined our shared experiences on the road. I developed a close bond with David’s wife, Mara Hennessey, who lent her vocal talents to certain songs during the performances. A particularly memorable moment for me was when I stepped in to sing backup vocals on “Pills” during the show at Nassau Coliseum, an impromptu addition that saw me joining the band on stage for the remainder of the tour until its conclusion in Chula Vista, California.
As I navigated life on the road alongside the New York Dolls, I observed David’s artistic evolution, transforming from the fiery young frontman of the band’s earlier era into a charismatic crooner in his senior years. Despite the rain cascading down during a show in Alabama, David’s unwavering commitment to his performance remained unwavering, delivering each song with poise and passion as if oblivious to the elements. The experience of being a part of this legendary band, where spontaneity and camaraderie reigned supreme, was a true honor.
Unlike the elaborate tour setups of Motley Crue and Poison, our touring entourage was unified in one bus, embodying the essence of raw and unadulterated rock and roll spirit. Ours was a no-frills operation, marked by fiery performances, interactive video screens, and an electrifying stage presence that eschewed programmed precision in favor of organic, dynamic musical moments. As the band celebrated its 40th year, I often heard fans clamoring for the New York Dolls to take the headline spot, a testament to their enduring influence on the rock music landscape.
Reflecting on the band’s final studio album, “Dancing Backwards In High Heels,” I recall the swift and collaborative process that birthed the album in New Castle in September of 2010. Led by David and Sylvain, this album captured the essence of the band’s illustrious career, culminating in a collection of songs that showcased their timeless artistry. Despite the album’s release receiving limited fanfare, its significance in encapsulating the band’s rich legacy was unmistakable.
Throughout my time with the New York Dolls, I shared many personal moments with David, Mara, and the rest of the band, bonding over shared stories, meals, and downtime on the road. As I carried out my duties with pride and dedication, fans often mistook me for a member of the band, a notion that was both humbling and amusing. Embracing the rock star treatment with grace and humility, I treasured each interaction with fans who fervently expressed their admiration for the band and its lasting impact on their lives.
In conclusion, my time with David Johansen and the New York Dolls was a chapter in my life that I hold dear, a testament to the enduring legacy of a band whose music continues to resonate with audiences across generations. As we commemorate David Johansen’s birthday today, I pay tribute to his unmatched talent, his unwavering passion for music, and the profound impact he and the New York Dolls have had on the world of rock and roll.