Rock chanteuse Amy Winehouse died at the age of 27. That’s the same age that Kurt Cobain, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and Jim Morrison died. Also Rolling Stones founder Brian Jones. Also Pigpen McKernan of the Grateful dead. Also blues legend Robert Johnson. And less famous rockers Chris Bell (of Big Star) and D. Boon (of the Minutemen).
Perhaps 27 is the age that the human body pays the toll for the untrammeled rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle, especially when it involves hard drugs like heroin, used by a good number of the “27 club.” There are, of course, geriatric rockers like Mick Jagger and Steven Tyler, but the death toll should be sobering. Dying young from a dissolute lifestyle is not limited, of course, to rock stars. Hank Williams was 29. And the “in memoriam” tributes at the typical high school reunion will list those who never were famous at all.
At any rate, if you are older than 27, you have survived your youth.
via Amy Winehouse’s death at 27 highlights a troubled, young talent – The Washington Post.
