During the early weeks of the COVID 19 pandemic, when uncertainty held sway, my department at work — all sequestered in our respective homes and duly “sheltering in place” — was tasked with conceiving new content to produce to keep our audience (our creative community of affiliated songwriters, composers and publishers) informed. I pitched a series of short Q&A’s with certain songwriters to see how they were handling the challenges of this new strange era. I got the green light, and started firing off emails to various names. To my very great joy, the very first guy that got back to me was New York City punk legend Jesse Malin, who was entirely game. For those who may not recognize the name, Jesse was formerly a member of proto-hardcore trio Heart Attack, later a founder of D Generation and a prolific solo artist. He's also a tireless advocate for the heart and soul of New York City's rock n' roll past, establishing endeavors like GreendoorNYC, Coney Island High, The Black & White Bar, Niagara's, Club Berlin, Heaven Can Wait, and 96 Tears, among others. I lobbed a handful of questions over and within a day, he hit me back with some great, thoughtful and inspiring responses.
At this risk of lapsing into fanboy hyperbole, Jesse has always been the mover, the shaker and the tip of the spear. A true believer in the music of New York City, he makes things happen, and has kept the spirit of Punk Rock alive in a downtown Manhattan riddled by gentrification. He’s also a tireless advocate for giving BACK, and has been involved in more charitable initiatives than I can count. He’s truly one of the good guys.
Just recently, Jesse suffered a rare spinal stroke and, as a result, is paralyzed from the waist down. He vows to walk and dance again. Don’t bet against him. That said, given his livelihood as a touring musician, Jesse is facing some tough financial obstacles as he endeavors to move forward. Help him out, if you can.
The evening Jesse was stricken, he was purportedly out at a favorite East Village Italian restaurant — John’s of 12th Street, maybe — with some friends, celebrating the life and memory of his fallen friend, D Gen bandmate and fellow NYC Punk alumnus Howie Pyro. After Jesse collapsed, following some strange pains in his lower back, the story goes that his great friend, Jimmy G of Murphy’s Law carried Jesse to Mt. Sinai hospital on Second Avenue.
Below is Jesse and Jimmy from only two years back with their tribute to Todd Youth (also a knowing nod to “Waiting on a Friend” by the Rolling Stones).
The photo up top, meanwhile was taken by photographer Josh Cheuse of Jesse within the intimate confines of Subterranean Records on Cornelia Street, which is no longer there.
Godspeed, Jesse. May you once again stride amongst us with the quickness.
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