The Heartbreakers in 1975 (first line-up). From left to right: Johnny Thunders, Richard Hell, Jerry Nolan, and Walter Lure. Photo by David Michael Kennedy.

In May 1975,

Johnny Thunders

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Johnny Thunders (July 15, 1952 - April 23, 1991), born John Anthony Genzale, Jr., was an American rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He came to prominence in the early 1970s

(lead guitar, vocals) and Jerry Nolan (drums) quit the

New York Dolls

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the same week that

Richard Hell

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(bass, vocals) left Television. Their first gig was on May 31st of that year at The Coventry, a rock club in Queens. The trio soon added Walter Lure (guitar, vocals) to the line-up. Lure had previously played with a glam-punk band called the Demons.

In December 1975, Richard Hell left The Heartbreakers and was replaced by Billy Rath.

The Heartbreakers in 1977 (second line-up). From left to right: Billy Rath, Walter Lure, Jerry Nolan, and Johnny Thunders. Photo by Bob Gruen.