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Ramones

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Band Timeline

1974

Formation of the Ramones

The Ramones were formed in 1974 in Forest Hills, Queens, New York City. The founding members were John Cummings (Johnny Ramone), Douglas Colvin (Dee Dee Ramone), and Jeff Hyman (Joey Ramone). They originally planned to have Richie Stern on bass but soon became a trio after realizing Stern couldn't play. Inspired by Paul McCartney's pseudonym, all adopted the 'Ramone' surname. They began rehearsing and solidified their lineup with Erdelyi (Tommy Ramone) joining later as drummer and manager. Dee Dee initially took on lead vocals but Joey became the lead singer early on.
1976

Release of Debut Album 'Ramones'

On April 23, 1976, the Ramones released their self-titled debut album under Sire Records. Recorded in just one week on a modest budget of $6,400, this album became their most iconic and critically acclaimed work. The punk rock sound of this album helped establish the Ramones as pioneers of the punk movement in the United States, defining the genre with fast, raw, and minimalist music.
1977

Follow-up Albums and Growing Influence

In 1977, the Ramones released two albums: 'Leave Home' and 'Rocket to Russia.' While 'Leave Home' marked their first charting album in the UK, 'Rocket to Russia' received wide acclaim and further cemented their influence in punk music. These albums expanded their fan base and defined the sound of early punk rock with energetic rhythms, simple chord progressions, and outspoken lyrics.
1978

Lineup Change with Marky Ramone Joining

In 1978, original drummer Tommy Ramone left the band to pursue record production. He was replaced by Marky Ramone. This marked the first major lineup change for the band. The shift maintained the band's momentum and allowed Tommy to grow as a producer while keeping the band's punk spirit alive on stage.
1980

Commercial Peak with 'End of the Century' Album

'End of the Century,' released in 1980, was produced by the famed Phil Spector and became the Ramones' most commercially successful album, peaking at #44 on the Billboard 200. The album blended their punk sound with Spector's wall of sound production, bringing a more polished feel while maintaining their edgy style. This record expanded their international appeal and visibility in the rock scene.
1983

Drummer Changes and Experimentation

In 1983, Marky Ramone was fired, and Richie Ramone joined as the new drummer. This period also saw the release of 'Subterranean Jungle,' which was their last album to chart in the top 100 of the Billboard 200. The band's music began incorporating heavier punk and other rock elements, transitioning from their earlier sound. This era marked a time of internal change and stylistic evolution for the band.
1984

Release of 'Too Tough to Die' with Richie Ramone

The 1984 album 'Too Tough to Die' marked a return to the Ramones' earlier punk style and was critically praised. Produced by former drummer Tommy Ramone and Ed Stasium, the album showcased a rawer sound reminiscent of their roots, garnering acclaim for its energy and authenticity during a time when the band was experimenting with heavier music styles.
1987

Brief Replacement and Return of Drummer Marky Ramone

In 1987, Richie Ramone left the band, and Elvis Ramone briefly joined for two performances before Marky Ramone rejoined as drummer. This period was marked by some instability in the drummer position but saw the band keeping active despite internal changes. The band's compilation album 'Ramones Mania' was also released in 1988, achieving Gold certification and reaffirming their lasting appeal.
1989

Departure of Dee Dee Ramone and New Lineup

1989 marked the departure of founding bassist Dee Dee Ramone from the band. The same year they released 'Brain Drain,' their last album with Dee Dee and under Sire Records. Dee Dee's departure was significant as he was a prolific songwriter and vital member. The band soon added C.J. Ramone as the new bassist, setting the stage for the band's final years.
1992

Later Albums and Continued Touring

In 1992, the Ramones released 'Mondo Bizarro,' their first album featuring C.J. Ramone. While this album was less successful on American charts, it achieved gold status in Brazil. The band continued to tour extensively, playing over 2,000 concerts during their career. Their music featured hits like 'Pet Sematary' and 'Poison Heart,' maintaining relevance amid changing music scenes.
1996

Disbandment after Farewell Tour

In 1996, following a tour as part of Lollapalooza music festival, the Ramones played their farewell concert in Los Angeles and officially disbanded. This ended over two decades of near nonstop touring and recording. Though their commercial success was limited during their active years, they had become a defining force in punk rock history and influenced countless artists worldwide.
2001-2014

Deaths of Original Members and Posthumous Recognition

Between 2001 and 2014, all four original members of the Ramones passed away: Joey Ramone (2001), Dee Dee Ramone (2002), Johnny Ramone (2004), and Tommy Ramone (2014). Despite their passing, their legacy continued to grow. The Ramones were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002 and received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011. They remain widely regarded as pioneers who shaped the punk rock genre.

Albums

ramones_1st_album
Ramones
14 tracks
1976
ramones_2nd_album
Leave Home
14 tracks
1977
ramones_3rd_album
Rocket to Russia
14 tracks
1977
ramones_4th_album
Road to Ruin
12 tracks
1978
ramones_5th_album
End of the Century
12 tracks
1980
ramones_6th_album
Pleasant Dreams
12 tracks
1981
ramones_7th_album
Subterranean Jungle
12 tracks
1983
ramones_8th_album
Too Tough to Die
13 tracks
1984
ramones_9th_album
Animal Boy
12 tracks
1986
ramones_10th_album
Halfway to Sanity
12 tracks
1987
ramones_11th_album
Brain Drain
12 tracks
1989
ramones_12th_album
Mondo Bizarro
13 tracks
1992
ramones_13th_album
Acid Eaters
12 tracks
1993
ramones_14th_album
¡Adios Amigos!
13 tracks
1995
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Members

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Tommy Ramone

1974
1978

Drums (drum set)

Joey Ramone

1974
1996

Lead vocals

Richie Ramone

1983
1987

Drums (drum set)

Background vocals

Marky Ramone

1987
1996

Drums (drum set)

C.J. Ramone

1989
1996

Bass guitar

Background vocals

Elvis Ramone

1987
1987

Drums (drum set)

Johnny Ramone

1974
1996

Guitar

Dee Dee Ramone

1974
1989

Lead vocals

Bass guitar

Marky Ramone

1978
1983

Drums (drum set)

Story of Ramones

The Ramones: The Pioneers of Punk

Born in the heart of New York's gritty Forest Hills, Queens, in 1974, the Ramones weren't just a band, they were a force. Their raw, stripped-down sound and rebellious spirit ignited a punk rock revolution that shook the world.

Forget about fancy harmonies and complex arrangements. The Ramones were all about simple, catchy riffs, relentless energy, and a defiant attitude that screamed, "This is our music, take it or leave it!" They are widely considered the first true punk band, blazing a trail for countless others who followed.

While their commercial success might have been modest, their influence is undeniable. They inspired countless artists and continue to be celebrated as a cornerstone of punk culture.

The Ramones' legacy is built on their unique identity, even down to their names. Each member adopted the surname "Ramone", a nod to the legendary Paul McCartney, who often used the alias "Paul Ramon". This quirky detail reflected the band's rebellious spirit and commitment to their own unique sound.

For 22 years, the Ramones lived and breathed music. They relentlessly toured, performing over 2,200 concerts, bringing their frenetic energy to audiences worldwide. In 1996, after a final tour with the Lollapalooza festival, they said goodbye in a farewell concert in Los Angeles, leaving behind a legacy that would live on.

Sadly, time took its toll, and all four founding members – Joey, Dee Dee, Johnny, and Tommy – left the stage forever, their music forever echoing in the hearts of their fans. The surviving members, including C.J., Marky, Richie, and Elvis Ramone, continue to make music, carrying the torch of the Ramones' legacy.

The Ramones' influence continues to resonate today. Rolling Stone Magazine recognized their impact, ranking them number 26 on their list of the "100 Greatest Artists of All Time" in 2004, while VH1 placed them at number 17 on their "100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock" in 2012. Their legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians, cementing their place as true pioneers of punk rock.

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