AceShowbiz - Jesse Malin has released a heartfelt tribute to his late friend and former bandmate, Howie Pyro, through a new song titled Hollywood Forever. The track honors Pyro’s legacy as bassist and co-founder of D Generation, as well as his influence as a popular DJ and collector of unique curiosities.

Pyro, born Howard Kusten in 1960, passed away on May 4, 2022, after a battle with liver disease. His death profoundly affected Malin, who channeled his grief into this musical homage. Alongside the release of Hollywood Forever, Malin also shared a B side cover of The Clash’s “Rudie Can’t Fail.”

The tribute extends beyond the music with an accompanying video that features rare photographs of Pyro and glimpses into his extensive collection of figurines and occult literature. Malin explained, “He would always say, if he had to go, Hollywood Forever Cemetery is the place he’d want to be buried.”

Malin described Pyro as a magnetic figure who connected with a wide range of people, saying, “Howie could get along with anybody. He was friends with both Johnny and Joey Ramone. Hells Angels, skinheads, drag queens, comic-book nerds, art collectors, fashionistas – they all loved him.”

In addition to the song and video, Malin is sharing his personal story of friendship and loss through his ongoing stage show, Silver Manhattan. The production, described by Malin as a love letter to New York City and to Pyro, delves into their deep bond and the impact of Pyro’s passing.

The show also touches on Malin’s own health struggles after being struck by a rare spinal stroke a year following Pyro’s death, which left him paralyzed. Despite these challenges, Malin continues to honor his friend’s memory through his art and performances.

Silver Manhattan is currently extended to run through May 10 at the Bowery Palace theater, allowing audiences to experience this intimate homage to both a city and a cherished friend.

Malin shared, “I didn’t make it to the end of that party. I ended up in the hospital for three months, but I did write this song to show him how much he meant to me. It’s our story.”