The Ramones: Punk’s Signature Sound
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Hailing from the street corners of Queens, NY, The Ramones are perhaps one of the most influential groups in modern music. Although they barely managed to scratch the surface in the mainstream music scene (and not for lack of trying), they became iconic in the alternative music world. Inspiring punk rock bands to come and, more importantly, reminding the world that simplicity can be an essential component in music, their influence is profound.
When the original members of the Ramones came together to form a band, they could barely play their instruments. Guitarist Johnny Ramone had learned a few chords from a Beatles songbook and tried his best to emulate the sound of the bands he looked up to, namely The Stooges and New York Dolls. Because of his limited vocabulary on the guitar, his sound was even more primal and rudimentary. Johnny auditioned for many local bands but was always rejected. He eventually found a home in The Ramones, which he formed with bassist Dee Dee, drummer Tommy, and singer Joey, who was initially supposed to be the drummer.
The ramshackle group of young punks could be described as Outsiders in the Cool Continuum because they didn’t think musicianship was a…
