What is there to say about Ron Reckless?

His last name really wasn’t “Reckless” or “Rexless” or “Rxless” as it has been written time after time in print, on records, or represented by the young and old punks who admired him. It was Grotjan. Ronald Grotjan.

Ron died on June 6, 2016 of cancer.

He was a husband to Robin, a loving father to Athena, an animal lover, a friend to many, a band mate to some, a singer, a guitar player, a bit of a malcontent (perhaps this is an understatement, but there was so much joy in there too), a funny motherfucker, a son, and bigger than life.

He gave birth to Godzilla.

Ron was a leader in the Phoenix punk rock scene. So much so, in fact, that he became a legend, even if he never came off like he was anything but one of us. He loved music and was willing to promote other people’s music on his radio show or just by saying a kind word about the creative efforts of others. He loved to talk about music, as well. Good lord, Ron could talk.

Ron’s work in Mighty Sphincter was over the top, outrageous, and also, in many ways, genre-shaping. The classic lineup of Ron, the late, great Joe Albanese on bass, Doug Clark on guitar, and Mr. Wonderful (Greg Hynes) on drums was nothing short of amazing…a true spectacle of sight, sound, smells (sometimes), and complete chaos mixed with utter carnality. To see Ron looming on stage was something to behold, something to marvel at, and something to remember.

As a member of Sphincter or Maybe Mental or The Very Idea of Fucking Hitler, Ron pushed boundaries and ideas at the same time. Ron stood up for what he believed in and would not hesitate to reach out to help someone in need, even if he never asked for any credit in doing so.

We remember Ron with admiration and respect. He was a true original and he was fearless when it came to his art. That’s a pretty awesome thing if you ask us. We celebrate his life and are cranking up his work to 11.

Rest in power, Ron, and rest in peace. Our thoughts are with Ron’s family in this time of transition.

T. Reardon