Fred "Sonic" Smith was an American musician best known as the guitarist for the influential rock band MC5. Born on September 14, 1949, in Detroit, Michigan, he played a significant role in the band's energetic sound and political lyrics during the late 1960s and early 1970s. After the disbandment of MC5, Smith continued to pursue music, forming the band Sonic's Rendezvous Band in the late 1970s. He was known for his innovative guitar work and contributions to the Detroit rock scene, influencing many musicians and bands that followed. Smith passed away on November 4, 1994.