Died On This Date (December 9, 1984) Razzle / Hanoi Rocks
Razzle (Born Nicholas Dingley)
December 2, 1960 – December 9, 1984
Nicholas Dingley, better known as Razzle, was the drummer for influential ’80s glam rock band, Hanoi Rocks. Formed in 1979, the band never rose much higher than cult status, but ended up being direct influences on Motley Crue, Guns ‘N Roses, Faster Pussycat, L.A. Guns, Poison and countless hair bands that popped up by the end of the ’80s. During the late hours of December 8, 1984, Razzle was a passenger in a car driven by Motley Crue lead singer, Vince Neil. While speeding and under the influence of alcohol, Neil lost control of the vehicle, crashing it into an oncoming car. The occupants of the other car were seriously injured and Razzle sustained injuries necessitating an emergency trip to the hospital. When he arrived, he was pronounced dead on arrival at just 24 years old. Since it was already December 9 at his home in Europe, the 9th is considered the date of his death.