Goodbye to a Silencer
Yesterday, I learned of the passing of a pioneer in the music industry and a Pittsburgh musician. Dennis Takos was called up to the eternal jam session. He will be missed by his family, friends, fans, and fellow musicians.
Dennis was one of the founding members of the iconic Pittsburgh band The Silencers. In 1979, Dennis, Warren King, C Cipola began writing music together. They added vocalist Frank Czuri and drummer Bird Foster. In 1980 their music took off and they were lucky enough to tour the country with the likes of ACDC, Foreigner, and Heart.They made the Billboard Hot 100 chart, in 1980, climbing to #81.
I mentioned that they were music pioneers. They made music history in 1981. A little venture called MTV was born, and on the first day of broadcast, the Silencers video appeared. That is pretty amazing stuff. Eventually the band members went their separate ways.
Unfortunately, Dennis contracted the very disease the befelled his band mates Warren King and Bird Foster. Liver Cancer is a horrible, nasty disease, that has taken several great local musicians away from us, way too early. Not only has it now taken three fifths of the Silencers. I was reminded today, by Hermie Granati, that it also took Glen Pavone and Sonny Pugar away from us.
When they meet up at the big stage in heaven, you can bet they will tear into a set that we will feel right here in their hometown. Probably lead by the Peter Gunn theme.
Friends and family will be received this Friday at the Corl Funeral Home in Monroeville.
Rest in Peace, Dennis.
Pittsburgh Music 1st
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