Last week we reported the passing of Rodney Speed. On Wednesday, January 20, his wake will take place from 5-7 PM at the Trambo Funeral Home in Harlem (100 St Nicholas Ave between 115th and 116th streets), followed by a funeral service starting at 7 PM. Drinks in his honor will follow at Speed’s favorite restaurant, Red Lobster at 261 W 125th St.

Speed, who worked at Wetlands Preserve throughout its history from 1989 through 2001, moved on to other area venues, including CBGB’s, B.B. King’s and Brooklyn Bowl as a staff member and DJ. He also performed on his own right as a member of the Rodney Speed Experience, which gigged throughout New York City.

His close friend, co-worker and bandmate Jake Szufnarowski told Relix.com last week, “I’m speechless. I’m stunned. I’m in shock. I’m completely devastated. I can hardly breathe, much less talk or type. Today I lost my best friend, my big brother, my little brother, my soul mate and my inspiration all at once. Rocks Off lost our mascot. The Rodney Speed Experience lost our leader. New York City lost our best DJ. The world of Rock N Roll lost our most loving and lively patron saint and its most spirited motivator and cheerleader… And the universe lost our biggest dreamer and its brightest soul.”