Johnny Thunders, born John Anthony Gonzalez, (1949-1991) was a rock and roll guitarist and singer, first with the New York Dolls, then with the The Heartbreakers and then as a solo act.
His guitar work was highly influential in punk rock music.
He formed the Heartbreakers with Dolls drummer Jerry Nolan and Television guitarist Richard Hell, who left soon after to form Richard Hell and the Voidoids.
Thunders recorded a number of solo albums beginning with So Alone in 1979. This record featured guests such as Steve Marriott, Glen Matlock, Phil Lynott, Steve Jones and members of the Only Ones.
Problems with drug addiction kept his output and songwriting sporadic during the 1980s. He died from methadone and alcohol poisoning New Orleans, Louisiana in 1991.
