Sub Pop co-founder Jonathan Poneman diagnosed with Parkinson's disease

Co-founder of iconic Seattle label Sub Pop, Jonathan Poneman has revealed that he’s been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

The “godfather of Grunge”, who helped launch the careers of Nirvana, Mudhoney, Soundgarden and more, has told the Seattle Times he’s suffering from the illness, a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system, at the age of 53.

“At first there was this lumbering slowness,” Poneman told his local publication. “But it became even more so, like the Tin Man without any oil.”

He continued to say how, despite all odds, the disease has had small positive effects on his life. “As ironic as it sounds, I am truly grateful to the disease,” he said. “My love of life and its precious elements became more vivid at the thought of seeing them fade away.”

Sub Pop recently turned 25 years of age this year, celebrating the landmark with a festival and compilation album release.

[via SPIN]