CBGB's Founder Hilly Kristal Dies

CBGB’s founder Hilly Kristal has died after losing his battle with lung cancer.

New Jersey born Kristal died at the age of 75 on Tuesday (August 28) after complications with the disease.

He started the now legendary CBGB & OMFUG (Country, Blue Grass and Blues & Other Music For Uplifting Gormandizers) in 1973 on the Bowery of Manhattan’s Lower Eat Side.

The club became the home to punk bands from around the city after Kristal initially found it difficult to book country, blue grass and blues acts to play the venue.

Bands such as Television, The Ramones, Blondie, Talking Heads, Richard Hell & The Voidoids, Patti Smith and the Dead Boys all graced the stage at some point in the 70s.

Speaking about the club Debbie Harry said in a statement following Kristal’s death: "I am very sorry that Hilly is gone.

“He was a big help to Blondie and to the New York music scene for many years. His club CBGB's has become a part of New York lore and rock n' roll history"

Little Steve Van Zandt, who had campaigned widely to stop the closure of the club added: "Losing CBGB meant it was only a matter of time before Hilly followed."

"It was his whole life. He created the space to allow Indie Rock, Pop Art Rock, and Punk to be born.

“There would be no Ramones without Hilly Kristal. And who would want to live in a world without them? He loved this city and in the end, the city spit in his face."

Private and public memorial services are being planned.