Marky Ramone reflects on Ramones’ legacy and upcoming UK tour
Marky Ramone recalls the first live performance he attended by the Ramones in 1974, describing it as chaotic yet transformative: “It was the beginning and they were honing their skills. They weren’t tight. They argued on stage. It really wasn’t together yet. But the second time I saw them,” he adds, “they kicked ass. I never heard any music like that. And that’s if you want to call it music. It was a barrage. It was like an attack. It was nonstop,” reports BritPanorama.
Initially known as Mark Bell, Marky adopted the name Ramone in 1978, becoming the drummer for the band over a span of 14 years. By the time he joined, the Ramones had established their influential punk blueprint, characterized by fast, raw rock music infused with pop melodies. Songs like “Blitzkrieg Bop”, “Sheena Was a Punk Rocker”, and “Rockaway Beach” captured the raw energy of New York City’s punk scene.
The Ramones’ music has influenced generations of artists across genres, from the English punk movement to modern rock bands such as Green Day. Remarkably, they gained institutional recognition through Grammy awards, their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and appearances on shows like The Simpsons.
Marky joined the Ramones when original drummer Tommy wanted to shift focus toward production. Following a successful rehearsal, he was welcomed into the band. “We liked the same music. We all wore the same clothes. There was no need to change anything. We just morphed into what was going,” he recalls. His contributions quickly became apparent, particularly with tracks like the classic “I Wanna be Sedated”.
Aside from music, Marky made cameo appearances in the film Rock and Roll High School, which showcased his unique persona as part of the band. Reflecting on his past, he has documented the band’s history and his personal challenges in his book, Punk Rock Blitzkrieg: My Life as a Ramone, which addresses his upbringing and struggle with alcoholism.
Since 2008, he has toured under the name Marky Ramone’s Blitzkrieg, presenting the Ramones’ iconic hits. A UK tour is scheduled for January. “The Ramones died too soon, and the songs are too good not to be played. I grew up with them, and I watched them unfortunately pass away, and it really hit me, you know? And I feel: ‘Who’s going to do it better?’”
Despite being younger than his bandmates, Marky established connections within the New York punk scene, performing with notable acts at venues like Max’s Kansas City and CBGB. He emphasizes the lack of professional jealousy within the community, calling it a time of camaraderie amidst the energetic atmosphere of the scene.
Marky has shared his thoughts on the English punk movement, expressing admiration for bands like The Clash. However, he has had contentious interactions, notably with Sex Pistols frontman John Lydon during a 2019 Q&A, where he reacted to personal attacks regarding his past. “I came down to his level, which I shouldn’t have done, and I regret it,” he reflects.
He elaborates on the dynamics within the Ramones, noting the contrasting personalities and political views among the members, which sometimes led to conflicts. Notably, the recording of their album End of a Century with producer Phil Spector was marked by tension, spotlighting differences in creative vision.
As the sole surviving member of the original lineup, Marky feels a sense of responsibility to preserve the band’s legacy, often reflecting on the personal loss of his bandmates Joey, Johnny, and Dee Dee, who all passed away in the early 2000s. “They were young. They were in their 40s. I mean, it’s sad. They couldn’t enjoy the fruits of their labour. Every day if I hear a Ramones song, if I’m playing a Ramones song, I think about them,” he says poignantly.
Marky Ramone’s Blitzkrieg is set to tour the UK starting January 21, offering fans an opportunity to connect with the music and legacy of the iconic band.
