RIP

CBGB founder Hilly Kristal. He was 75.

"He was my boss from 1986 to '90. He was a tough guy to work for, but that's what he was: a tough guy. If it wasn't for him there would be no Prong. There probably wouldn't be The Ramones, Suicide, NY Hardcore and countess other influential music styles and artists. Thanks Hilly, you won't be forgotten." - Tommy Victor, Prong vocalist/guitarist and former CBGB soundman, via MySpace.

The legendary Handsome Dick Manitoba of The Dictators has posted his thoughts on Kristal's passing on the band's website.