I’ve never thought of myself as a fanboy, but a few bands have always been there, shaping who I am. The Clash, the Ramones, Social Distortion, the Stray Cats and, among them, the band X holds a deeply personal place in my heart.

They formed in Los Angeles back in 1977: Exene Cervenka, John Doe, Billy Zoom, and D.J. Bonebrake. Around that time, I was just starting high school out in the San Fernando Valley, not far from where their uncooked, rebellious sound was beginning to take root.

Their music, especially “Los Angeles”, the album produced by Ray Manzarek became the soundtrack to my coming-of-age. It played behind long drives, restless nights, first heartbreaks, and fierce friendships. 

I remember hitchhiking to Hollywood to catch their early shows. Billy Zoom’s pedal to the metal, punk-rockabilly attack had a huge influence on me, he’s a big part of why I picked up the guitar in the first place.

When the Album Los Angeles dropped in the spring of 1980, it quickly became iconic. But to me, it was more than that, it became part of my story.

Recently, I had the chance, with my beautiful wife, to meet the founding members and get my well-worn copy of Los Angeles signed. I didn’t hesitate. They were warm, funny, and gracious. I’m sure they’ve met countless fans over the years, each with their own story. But for me, it felt like reuniting with old friends that had unknowingly walked beside me for decades.

So to Billy, Exene, D.J., and John: thank you. Thank you for the years of hard work, joy, and great music. Thanks for signing the LP, and thanks for being there.

Signed,

Fanboy

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