New York Dolls (The 1st LP) released in July of 1973 received widespread acclaim from critics when it was first released but sold poorly. The band toured the United States to promote the record, but they were difficult to market and developed a reputation for rock-star excesses. Despite its commercial failure, the album was an influential precursor to the 1970s punk movement and has since been named in various publications as one of the greatest debut records in rock and one of the greatest albums of all time. The photography by Toshi has become (somewhat) iconic. Many bands would emulate the Dolls style over the years (and still do) but no LP has really had the punch of seeing these 5 men in drag on an album released 43 years ago. It’s the outtakes that are even more interesting, somehow even glammier and more shocking. And who is kid in the back cover photos and where is he today?
Self Titled 1st LP
In order of appearance – #1 Arthur “Killer” Kane
Sylvain Sylvain
David Johansen
Johnny Thunders
Jerry Nolan
Back Cover – The Gem Spa, NYCNY
Jerry
Johnny
David
Arthur
Syl
Gem Spa today
