Dirk Dirksen - Pope of Punk (R.I.P.)

In case any of you are or were punk rockers, this is for you.

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This is a little more than we can even begin to write.

Dirk passed away last night, in his sleep.
(We're so sorry to have to tell you like this.
Please tell others. Thanks.)

VKTMS wouldn't have been much if it wasn't for him.
Many of us wouldn't have done much.
We learned how to really play on
that stage at the Mabuhay Gardens and
it was Dirk that gave us a chance. Most of us are
still playing music because of that chance.

So much of music, art,
politics and general scene would not be the
same if it hadn't been for him. And not just
in San Francisco. The influence spread as far
as it could possibly go.
A fitting bio and obituary will be a real book.

The Mab was not just a club. It was a place you
went to BE. It was home. There never was another
like it and most likely there will never be another.
For sure, there will never be another Dirk Dirksen.

He was like a father to us. Dirk was a like a
father to many. Or at least a good uncle.

He only wanted a band to be good. If he was harsh it
wasn't because you sucked but because you could be better.

Something like this just sucks the air out of you. Even knowing
that he was older and not all well it really seems too much.
Like he'd be there forever....long after we're all gone.
"Get up and get out!" He'd say.

4 Bands a night, 7 nights a week.
Think about it.

With love,

VKTMS - John, Steve, Lou, Nyna(R.I.P.)