in 15 April 2001, the music world lost one of the most iconic representatives of punk rock, the Joey Ramone. The singer and founder of Ramones, the band that defined the punk movement, passed away at the age of 49 ετών, after a long battle with Hodgkin's lymphoma.
The life and career of Joey Ramone
Born in 19 May 1951 ως Jeffrey Ross Hyman, Joey grew up in Queens, New York. From a young age he loved music and found refuge in the sounds of rock 'n' roll, the Beatles and the Stooges. Johnny, Dee Dee and Tommy Ramone, they created the Ramones, a band that changed the landscape of the music industry forever.
With tracks like “Blitzkrieg Bop”, the “I Wanna Be Sedated” and the “Rockaway Beach”, the Ramones defined the fast, raw and unconventional style of punk. Despite their huge influence, they never experienced commercial success while they were active. However, their contribution to punk remains invaluable.
The battle with the disease and the end
In the '90s, Joey was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma, a form of cancer that affects the lymphatic system. Despite the disease, he did not stop creating music and influencing new generations of artists.
in 15 April 2001, breathed his last in a New York hospital. It is said that the last song he heard before he died was “In a Little While” of U2. The news of his death shocked the music world, with artists such as Green Day, Pearl Jam and The Offspring expressing their grief.
The legacy of Joey Ramone
Although the Ramones didn't achieve huge commercial success while they were active, their influence on punk and rock music is undeniable. In 2002, his first solo album, “Don’t Worry About Me”, released posthumously, including the moving “What a Wonderful World”.
In 2003, a street in New York's East Village was renamed “Joey Ramone Place”, honoring his contribution to the music and culture of the city.
Joey Ramone remains one of punk rock's most beloved and recognizable figures. With his distinctive voice, unique style and indomitable spirit, he will continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
