As tributes continue for SNFU's Mr. Chi Pig, petition seeks Canada's Walk of Fame star for the punk legend

by Craig Takeuchi on July 21st, 2020 at 8:00 PM

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The outpouring of condolences, eulogies, and tributes is continuing for the eccentric lead singer of an influential Canadian punk band, for whom fans are now seeking the national Walk of Fame honour.

Edmonton-born Kendall Chinn, who was of Chinese and German descent and best-known as Mr. Chi Pig, died in Vancouver on July 16 at the age of 57. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

Chinn and his friends formed the hardcore punk band SNFU (Society’s No Fucking Use) in 1981 in Edmonton before relocating to Vancouver in 1992.

The band released eight studio albums, two live albums, and one compilation.

SNFU

After Chinn moved to Vancouver, he formed other bands, including the Wongs, Little Joe, and Slaveco, and he also came out as gay, becoming a notable queer punk figure.

He was the focus of the 2009 documentary Open Your Mouth and Say...Mr. Chi Pig, which delved into his personal demons.

Chinn struggled with both mental and physical health issues throughout his life, including schizophrenia, addiction, pneumonia, and malnutrition.

In his memory, SNFU shared the song “Cement Mixer (to all my beautiful friends)” on July 17.

“Mr Chi Pig's soul took flight,” SNFU stated. “He wanted his friends and fans to enjoy this song he wrote for all of you.”

Meanwhile, an online petition has been launched to request a star for him on Canada’s Walk of Fame, with the intent of obtaining 10,000 signatures.

Reflecting the extent of his influence and popularity, numerous bands and individuals—from NOFX and Sloan to DOA's Joe Keithley—have been paying tribute to Chinn in articles and on social media.