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Панк-рок блицкриг: Жизнь под именем Рамон
Заключительное слово о гениальности и бедах Ramones, сказанное человеком, который держал ритм и жил, чтобы рассказать об этом.
Когда в начале 70-х панк-рок поднял свою шипованную голову, у Марка Белла было лучшее место. Молодой, но закалённый участием в Dust – прототипе американской метал-группы, Белл поселился в творческом и злачном Нижнем Манхэттене, где играл на барабанах в группах, которые сформируют рок-музыку на десятилетия вперед, включая коллектив Уэйна Каунти, который стал пионером транссексуального рока, и Richard Hell and The Voidoids, которые непосредственно вдохновили всю раннюю британскую панк-сцену.
Если в панке есть королевские особы, то Марк стал одной их них в 1978 году, когда Джонни, Джоуи и Ди Ди из бунтарских Ramones посвятили его в рыцари под именем Марки Рамон. Группа упёртых изгоев отлично подошла для Марки, который одевался в панк-стиле ещё до появления панка и который привнёс свой «блицкриг»- стиль игры на барабанах, а также студийный и сценический опыт, необходимые группе для укрепления состава. Вместе они изменят мир.
Но Марки Рамон тоже изменился. Чудовищный износ разобщённой группы, бесконечно колесящей по стране и миру в вэне – практически психиатрическом отделении на колёсах – привёл Марки от тусовок к алкоголизму. Когда его жизнь стала выглядеть бесконтрольнее, чем у Ди Ди, он понял, что есть проблема. В середине 80-х Марки оставил музыку, чтобы излечиться, а после вернуться и помочь Ramones наконец-то получить полагающееся одной из величайших и самых влиятельных групп всех времён.
Русское издание включает вступительное слово Дмитрия Спирина, старого, прожженного фаната Ramones. Издано совместно с Clockwork Punk.
Когда в начале 70-х панк-рок поднял свою шипованную голову, у Марка Белла было лучшее место. Молодой, но закалённый участием в Dust – прототипе американской метал-группы, Белл поселился в творческом и злачном Нижнем Манхэттене, где играл на барабанах в группах, которые сформируют рок-музыку на десятилетия вперед, включая коллектив Уэйна Каунти, который стал пионером транссексуального рока, и Richard Hell and The Voidoids, которые непосредственно вдохновили всю раннюю британскую панк-сцену.
Если в панке есть королевские особы, то Марк стал одной их них в 1978 году, когда Джонни, Джоуи и Ди Ди из бунтарских Ramones посвятили его в рыцари под именем Марки Рамон. Группа упёртых изгоев отлично подошла для Марки, который одевался в панк-стиле ещё до появления панка и который привнёс свой «блицкриг»- стиль игры на барабанах, а также студийный и сценический опыт, необходимые группе для укрепления состава. Вместе они изменят мир.
Но Марки Рамон тоже изменился. Чудовищный износ разобщённой группы, бесконечно колесящей по стране и миру в вэне – практически психиатрическом отделении на колёсах – привёл Марки от тусовок к алкоголизму. Когда его жизнь стала выглядеть бесконтрольнее, чем у Ди Ди, он понял, что есть проблема. В середине 80-х Марки оставил музыку, чтобы излечиться, а после вернуться и помочь Ramones наконец-то получить полагающееся одной из величайших и самых влиятельных групп всех времён.
Русское издание включает вступительное слово Дмитрия Спирина, старого, прожженного фаната Ramones. Издано совместно с Clockwork Punk.
352 pages, Paperback
First published September 17, 2013
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March 25, 2015
You take a chance, when you read the biography of a personal hero. I gambled & lost. I mean, I loved the flow of the book. It was very easy to read & I was engaged the whole time.
Here are my problems with his view of life on the road:
He acts like the rest of the band taking the hotel soaps was thievery, yet he & his wife taking the hotel robes was okay.
No loyalty to anyone but himself & Marion.
Gary Kurfirst selling counterfeit concert tix is "just show business," but not giving him an equal share when he first joins the band is robbery.
Brags about his drinking, which he admittedly began when he rolled out of bed each day. The other guys are criminals bc they took pills. Yeah he sobered up, but unfortunately he's one of those that thinks it should be so easy for everyone.
Accused Johnny of racism for phonetically speaking Chinese but he does the same in Italian
Calls Johnny a tight wad like it's bad yet eats off strangers plates in restaurants.
All in all, Marky Ramone comes off like Peter Criss. Relentlessly blaming everyone else for everything.
Here are my problems with his view of life on the road:
He acts like the rest of the band taking the hotel soaps was thievery, yet he & his wife taking the hotel robes was okay.
No loyalty to anyone but himself & Marion.
Gary Kurfirst selling counterfeit concert tix is "just show business," but not giving him an equal share when he first joins the band is robbery.
Brags about his drinking, which he admittedly began when he rolled out of bed each day. The other guys are criminals bc they took pills. Yeah he sobered up, but unfortunately he's one of those that thinks it should be so easy for everyone.
Accused Johnny of racism for phonetically speaking Chinese but he does the same in Italian
Calls Johnny a tight wad like it's bad yet eats off strangers plates in restaurants.
All in all, Marky Ramone comes off like Peter Criss. Relentlessly blaming everyone else for everything.
December 5, 2015
I met Marc at CBGB the last night he played with the Voidoids in May 1978; I was once his greatest admirer, but our relationship ended when the Ramones played at Central Park in August 1979. We were young and that was long ago. Through him I met and traveled with the Ramones and their wives and girlfriends twice, once on the Phil Spector trip to Los Angeles for about three weeks, and another time on a week-long tour South (Washington, DC, Raleigh, and several other places). The first time Marc invited my sister and me to see the Ramones was at a club on the outskirts of New Brunswick, not far from Rutgers University in New Jersey, but far enough from his New York Brooklyn girlfriends. (I was a New Jersey outsider.)
What I remember most about Marc: he was popular, ambitious, and funny, hilariously funny, he made everyone laugh, and that was a good thing with a group of people as unhappy as that band and their wives and girlfriends, and the Ramone wives and girlfriends played an enormous part in those lives, so do not discount them. He also was a respected drummer and people admired and liked him, a likable guy.
From the excerpt of the book posted on Rolling Stone, I see that I'm not mentioned, and understand why. I didn't expect nor need to be. However, from that it determined to me the accuracy of the author. Now, William S. Burroughs (Literary Outlaw. New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 2012) said, "When someone asks me to what extent my work is autobiographical, I say 'Every word is autobiographical and every word is fiction.' " This is true, and I could say the same of my own writing, and here we could ask what extent of this bio is fiction, clouded by time and inebriation? In a way, what difference does it make if the story is entertaining and a fast, fun read? How accurate does it need to be? Most important, from the publisher's view, what difference does a small matter like truth make if the book sells? Marc is remembering things through his filter, just as every writer does. (FYI, always interesting Burroughs also said, "I think the so-called punk movement is a media creation." New York Babylon: From Beat to Punk. London: Omnibus, 1998.)
I feel a bit of a voyeur reading this book, but did so quickly in a few hours concentrating on the 1970s, the most interesting time for the music. A more authentic story would have been told, if the author spoke in his own voice, rather than through a co-author. Much seems glossed over, sanitized, and politically corrected, without a sense of the true grit of the time or place. Written to appeal to the base and sell books--funny Alligator Alley story--but I learned a few things, such as Marc's true age. Thanks for reminding me about the Uncle Floyd show; I almost forgot being there. It seems in all those years, the individuals didn't change much. The band stayed together like a miserable marriage that dragged on for years and years, but they were determined to be commercially successful . . . and in that they succeeded.
I would prefer not to rate the book, but the system won't allow this review without it, so five stars for the follies of youth, and thanks, Marc, for an inside look at the workings of the early Ramones complete with Phil Spector and Grandpa Munster, a tour of Capitol Records, and a top performance by Robert Gordon in one of those LA clubs. Minus one star here and there for not quite telling it straight.
Marc and Hersch, (as Matt calls you), congratulations on your Amazon bestseller. Marc, you look the same as you did almost forty years ago.
To the fans, what a loyal bunch, you'll enjoy the read.
What I remember most about Marc: he was popular, ambitious, and funny, hilariously funny, he made everyone laugh, and that was a good thing with a group of people as unhappy as that band and their wives and girlfriends, and the Ramone wives and girlfriends played an enormous part in those lives, so do not discount them. He also was a respected drummer and people admired and liked him, a likable guy.
From the excerpt of the book posted on Rolling Stone, I see that I'm not mentioned, and understand why. I didn't expect nor need to be. However, from that it determined to me the accuracy of the author. Now, William S. Burroughs (Literary Outlaw. New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 2012) said, "When someone asks me to what extent my work is autobiographical, I say 'Every word is autobiographical and every word is fiction.' " This is true, and I could say the same of my own writing, and here we could ask what extent of this bio is fiction, clouded by time and inebriation? In a way, what difference does it make if the story is entertaining and a fast, fun read? How accurate does it need to be? Most important, from the publisher's view, what difference does a small matter like truth make if the book sells? Marc is remembering things through his filter, just as every writer does. (FYI, always interesting Burroughs also said, "I think the so-called punk movement is a media creation." New York Babylon: From Beat to Punk. London: Omnibus, 1998.)
I feel a bit of a voyeur reading this book, but did so quickly in a few hours concentrating on the 1970s, the most interesting time for the music. A more authentic story would have been told, if the author spoke in his own voice, rather than through a co-author. Much seems glossed over, sanitized, and politically corrected, without a sense of the true grit of the time or place. Written to appeal to the base and sell books--funny Alligator Alley story--but I learned a few things, such as Marc's true age. Thanks for reminding me about the Uncle Floyd show; I almost forgot being there. It seems in all those years, the individuals didn't change much. The band stayed together like a miserable marriage that dragged on for years and years, but they were determined to be commercially successful . . . and in that they succeeded.
I would prefer not to rate the book, but the system won't allow this review without it, so five stars for the follies of youth, and thanks, Marc, for an inside look at the workings of the early Ramones complete with Phil Spector and Grandpa Munster, a tour of Capitol Records, and a top performance by Robert Gordon in one of those LA clubs. Minus one star here and there for not quite telling it straight.
Marc and Hersch, (as Matt calls you), congratulations on your Amazon bestseller. Marc, you look the same as you did almost forty years ago.
To the fans, what a loyal bunch, you'll enjoy the read.
November 12, 2022
3.5 stars. I subtracted half a star because the narration was so bad. Sad that all the original Ramones are gone now. Glad Marky is around to tell the story of the Ramones as he knew them.
February 12, 2015
I’ve pretty much read every book about the Ramones and by anybody with the Ramones, so I’ve been eagerly awaiting Marky’s take on this. We’ve heard from Dee Dee, Johnny and Joey (through his brother Mickey Leigh) and now it’s Marky’s turn. In a way this is probably the final word on this band whose popularity today is even greater than when they were around. As Marky himself said at a book release event that I attended – “the only insiders left are Marky and Monte Melnick” the road manager. Marky describes his pain at losing Joey, Dee Dee and Johnny in the book and Tommy passed away last summer. The Ramones only live on through their music, but what a ride they took us on!
Marky was an established rock & roll drummer when Tommy recommended that he replace him in the Ramones. Marc Bell became Marky Ramone and the first song that he played on was “I Wanna Be Sedated” which turned out to be the band’s biggest hit. This was followed with the filming of “Rock & Roll High School” and life with Joey, Johnny and Dee Dee while they were crisscrossing the USA in a Ford Econoline van. The book is well written (Rich Herschlag is the co-writer) and they do an excellent job of setting the scene and describing the world that the Ramones were trying to function in. I lived in that world and I can attest that what passed for music was pretty bad. Hearing a single Ramones song on the radio was a cause for celebration.
We all know by now that the Ramones were not a “happy family” and Marky makes no attempt to sugarcoat any of this. Dee Dee had drug problems, Joey and Johnny stopped talking to each other and Marky’s drinking led him to be fired by the band. There was little commercial success for the Ramones – even the legendary Phil Spector could not produce a hit album for them. But the Ramones persevered and Marky persevered. He candidly describes his battles with alcoholism and his realization that he must take control of his life. Marky became sober and the Ramones came calling again when Richie (Marky’s replacement) suddenly quit the band. Marky was back and would remain the Ramones drummer until their final show. There was no happy ending for the band, but they all realized that the world had caught up with the Ramones and now they finally had the success and credit that had eluded them for years.
This is a wonderful addition to mine and anybody else’s bookshelf” Just open the cover, put on any Ramones LP on the turntable and “Hey Ho, Let’s Go” – you’re now in Rock & Roll Heaven!
Marky was an established rock & roll drummer when Tommy recommended that he replace him in the Ramones. Marc Bell became Marky Ramone and the first song that he played on was “I Wanna Be Sedated” which turned out to be the band’s biggest hit. This was followed with the filming of “Rock & Roll High School” and life with Joey, Johnny and Dee Dee while they were crisscrossing the USA in a Ford Econoline van. The book is well written (Rich Herschlag is the co-writer) and they do an excellent job of setting the scene and describing the world that the Ramones were trying to function in. I lived in that world and I can attest that what passed for music was pretty bad. Hearing a single Ramones song on the radio was a cause for celebration.
We all know by now that the Ramones were not a “happy family” and Marky makes no attempt to sugarcoat any of this. Dee Dee had drug problems, Joey and Johnny stopped talking to each other and Marky’s drinking led him to be fired by the band. There was little commercial success for the Ramones – even the legendary Phil Spector could not produce a hit album for them. But the Ramones persevered and Marky persevered. He candidly describes his battles with alcoholism and his realization that he must take control of his life. Marky became sober and the Ramones came calling again when Richie (Marky’s replacement) suddenly quit the band. Marky was back and would remain the Ramones drummer until their final show. There was no happy ending for the band, but they all realized that the world had caught up with the Ramones and now they finally had the success and credit that had eluded them for years.
This is a wonderful addition to mine and anybody else’s bookshelf” Just open the cover, put on any Ramones LP on the turntable and “Hey Ho, Let’s Go” – you’re now in Rock & Roll Heaven!
December 30, 2015
Okay...Marky isn't my favorite Ramone. He's also not my least favorite either. That title goes to Johnny. And it's true I've had a chuckle or two over Marky's spaghetti sauce and meatball food truck ventures. AND If you can find it in the archives of WFMU there is a hilarious spoof of Marky Ramone promoting his historical erotic fiction. However in spite of all that he is a serious drummer and a pretty good one to boot.
Then I read the book...
I found out some pretty interesting things I never knew about the Ramones, Marky included and I thought I knew it all about the band that catapulted me into the world of punk.
I have new found respect for Marky. For all intents and purposes he's the last man standing and that's an amazing feat in itself after reading his side of the story.
Then I read the book...
I found out some pretty interesting things I never knew about the Ramones, Marky included and I thought I knew it all about the band that catapulted me into the world of punk.
I have new found respect for Marky. For all intents and purposes he's the last man standing and that's an amazing feat in itself after reading his side of the story.
February 4, 2016
I enjoyed this book about the Ramones from the perspective of Marc Bell, a/k/a Marky Ramone, who replaced Tommy Ramone on drums. If you've read enough rock bios, you know what's coming: Success, rock excess, and recovery from addiction. The personalities of the Ramones make the story very interesting: Joey with his OCD and hygiene issues; Johnny with his control issues and rightwing views; Dee Dee with his songwriting talent compromised by extreme addictions.
My biggest complaint about this book is the photograph section in the middle. There are plenty of photos of Marky with his prior bands and with numerous celebrities, like Lemmy, Robert Plant, and Roger Daltrey, but not one photo of the other Ramones. Didn't the editors think that the fans would want to see photos that included Joey, Johnny, and/or Dee Dee?
My biggest complaint about this book is the photograph section in the middle. There are plenty of photos of Marky with his prior bands and with numerous celebrities, like Lemmy, Robert Plant, and Roger Daltrey, but not one photo of the other Ramones. Didn't the editors think that the fans would want to see photos that included Joey, Johnny, and/or Dee Dee?
March 20, 2024
400 pages of love, finger-pointing, and clunky-yet-endearing (hilarious) turns of phrase. Cute and whimsical. Perfect read for a guy like me. I only wish it was 1,000 pages. Hey ho let's go
August 9, 2017
I received this as a complimentary copy from NetGalley over two and a half years ago in exchange for an honest review, and while I regret not getting to it sooner, I do want to extend my thanks.
If the laws of physics would allow, and granted I'm no superfan, I would exercise time travel and disregard the flaw of being born maybe three quarters of a generation too soon to see the birth of some of the rawest live music to grace a stage. No seizure inducing light show. No multi-chromatic splash of neon blinding futuristic crayola shade. No advanced pyrotechnic guy who's got a guy with a box and a butane lighter. Just a goddamn bunch of long hairs from New York staying in virtually the same place the whole show because they're too busy playing the shit out of the songs. Sonically, I don't always want to be entertained like I'm being wooed. Take me back to the mid to late 70s, somewhere in New York or London, hell Germany even and have the Ramones thump the air from my lungs. But enough about my impossible journey. The way Marky tells it, the Ramones stripped it down to pop songs done louder, faster and shorter. And no one would give them air play, no hits. Perfect. Within the industry, it didn't matter, names were still either lining up to work with them or revering their influence. But history can be written by the survivors, and of the five Ramones inducted into the Rock n Roll HoF, Marky is the last remaining. As he tells it, Johnny was a strict businessman, learning guitar essentially as he joined the band; conservative in his politics and often brooding on the road unlikely to party with the other band members. Most of all, it was his disgust for Joey that outsiders rarely caught a glimpse of. Joey was portrayed as an unhygienic gangly introvert, stunning for a front man in a band. For someone so revered in rock circles, it was difficult to read about the periphery of his life from an insider and the juxtaposition that went along with being at the forefront of a movement. He was debilitated by OCD for instance, two-timed by his girlfriend Linda, in front of the entire band, who ended up marrying Johnny. They didn't speak for upwards of 20 years. I got the sense he died hapless and an empty soul at way too young an age. Tragic really. As for Dee Dee, apparently he was a brilliant songwriter, continuing to write for the band even after he left to embark on an ill-advised rap career; he had stones if nothing else to try something like that. His past became too much, and in the end, it caught up with him; a victim of a drug overdose after being sober for some time. The tragic story of a band and its members dying and its dysfunction is not unique to be sure, but to go about it in relative stateside obscurity the way the Ramones did, for all that they did, certainly lends some credence to Marky Ramone's book. It does tell a fair amount about his time before the Ramones as well when he drummed for the Voidoids and others. So use discretion. 3.5 stars.
One short post-script amendment I neglected to add in my haste. I did find the last words of the book a surprisingly succinct and touching tribute to his band mates. Unsure if those words were borrowed from elsewhere but they were uttered in perfect rhythm.
If the laws of physics would allow, and granted I'm no superfan, I would exercise time travel and disregard the flaw of being born maybe three quarters of a generation too soon to see the birth of some of the rawest live music to grace a stage. No seizure inducing light show. No multi-chromatic splash of neon blinding futuristic crayola shade. No advanced pyrotechnic guy who's got a guy with a box and a butane lighter. Just a goddamn bunch of long hairs from New York staying in virtually the same place the whole show because they're too busy playing the shit out of the songs. Sonically, I don't always want to be entertained like I'm being wooed. Take me back to the mid to late 70s, somewhere in New York or London, hell Germany even and have the Ramones thump the air from my lungs. But enough about my impossible journey. The way Marky tells it, the Ramones stripped it down to pop songs done louder, faster and shorter. And no one would give them air play, no hits. Perfect. Within the industry, it didn't matter, names were still either lining up to work with them or revering their influence. But history can be written by the survivors, and of the five Ramones inducted into the Rock n Roll HoF, Marky is the last remaining. As he tells it, Johnny was a strict businessman, learning guitar essentially as he joined the band; conservative in his politics and often brooding on the road unlikely to party with the other band members. Most of all, it was his disgust for Joey that outsiders rarely caught a glimpse of. Joey was portrayed as an unhygienic gangly introvert, stunning for a front man in a band. For someone so revered in rock circles, it was difficult to read about the periphery of his life from an insider and the juxtaposition that went along with being at the forefront of a movement. He was debilitated by OCD for instance, two-timed by his girlfriend Linda, in front of the entire band, who ended up marrying Johnny. They didn't speak for upwards of 20 years. I got the sense he died hapless and an empty soul at way too young an age. Tragic really. As for Dee Dee, apparently he was a brilliant songwriter, continuing to write for the band even after he left to embark on an ill-advised rap career; he had stones if nothing else to try something like that. His past became too much, and in the end, it caught up with him; a victim of a drug overdose after being sober for some time. The tragic story of a band and its members dying and its dysfunction is not unique to be sure, but to go about it in relative stateside obscurity the way the Ramones did, for all that they did, certainly lends some credence to Marky Ramone's book. It does tell a fair amount about his time before the Ramones as well when he drummed for the Voidoids and others. So use discretion. 3.5 stars.
One short post-script amendment I neglected to add in my haste. I did find the last words of the book a surprisingly succinct and touching tribute to his band mates. Unsure if those words were borrowed from elsewhere but they were uttered in perfect rhythm.
January 30, 2016
This was a very interesting book because it is on one hand, pretty awful, and on another, extremely good. The stories Marky tells are very interesting and he gives a perspective that was missing from Johnny's and Dee Dee's autobiographies. It was great to get more into the nuts and bolts of some of the recording and touring issues the band had. That said, wow!, it would seem this was written by a sixth grader for an audience of either space aliens or people living entirely cut off from society for their entire lives. Marky went to the same high school as Neil Diamond, cool, glad to hear it. Do I need to be told that Neil is a singer songwriter? When he records a three song EP with an early band we are treated to an explanation of what an EP is. Really? Japanese sake gets an explanation. There is a very detailed synopsis of Rock and Roll High School, with some omissions. Does he think that readers have not seen the film? If they haven't, do they really need so many details? The stories should be enough to inspire the reader to watch the film if he/she hasn't already. The use of cliches and blending Ramones' song titles and lyrics into context was dumb after a while. I'm glad I read the book because I got a new perspective on one of my favorite bands. I wish Marky had found a better co-author, not what could pass for his 14 year old nephew. I cannot believe the balls it took this guy to write a book about his life as a Ramone and not include one single picture of any of his band mates. Absurd.
October 14, 2019
Marky Ramone is definitely the least interesting one of the group, but also the only one with the ability to put a book together. Really enjoyed his onsite on the dynamic between the other members. His whole back story was a bit slow.
October 13, 2023
The Ramones were the soundtrack to my junior high and high school life. Pretty much every milestone during this period was accompanied by the energetic music of the band. As well as I knew the music I really did not know too much about the band going in other than a few stories associated with CBGBs.
Marky tells his story and that of the Ramones in an enjoyable and accessible manner. He openly discusses his and the other band member's issues with alcohol and drugs. He also goes into the mental health issues the members, especially Joey, had to deal with. It is inspiring that once he was able to get himself clean that he rejoined the band and tried to help his band mates do the same but that he realized they had to do the work themselves.
As I worked my way through the book I could hear the songs Marky mentioned in my head and remembered all of the good times I had while listening to them growing up. If you ever listened to the Ramones or punk music in general this book is essential reading. 5 stars.
I was provided a copy of the eArc for this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Marky tells his story and that of the Ramones in an enjoyable and accessible manner. He openly discusses his and the other band member's issues with alcohol and drugs. He also goes into the mental health issues the members, especially Joey, had to deal with. It is inspiring that once he was able to get himself clean that he rejoined the band and tried to help his band mates do the same but that he realized they had to do the work themselves.
As I worked my way through the book I could hear the songs Marky mentioned in my head and remembered all of the good times I had while listening to them growing up. If you ever listened to the Ramones or punk music in general this book is essential reading. 5 stars.
I was provided a copy of the eArc for this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 13, 2017
Being 55 (about 6 years younger then Marc) I grew up with Rock (Stones, Zeppelin, Who, etc) and Punk (Ramones, Minutemen, Meat Puppets, etc.) so naturally I liked this book for the insights it gave me into my most listened to band. Having a favorite band is not logical but emotional. I cannot explain why I keep listening to The Ramones but I do. They occupy more space on my ipod then any other band and I love many bands from Pat Metheny to The Replacements to Patti Smith and on and on. After reading some of the criticisms from other readers I just want to say that I do not really care if Marc embellished a bit here and there. He joined The Ramones when he was only 22 years old after having already made a name for himself in the business. Marc jumped right into a dysfunctional family and worked hard to make himself useful, indispensable and likable like any of us would in that situation. Marc enlightens the reader to more in depth knowledge about each of his band mates, more in depth then Monty did in his On The Road with The Ramones book (which I also loved by the way, Melnicks always welcome at my bakery). Yes, the Ramones are my favorite band. No, I would not want to hang out with any of them. I am grateful to Marc for all the effort he put into this book. It reads clear and true and has a nice pace to it. So, order yourself a copy and Hey Ho, Let's Go!
June 22, 2019
I would read anything official about the Ramones, who happen to be in my top 3 bands of ALL TIME.
I enjoyed reading this book. Nothing negative to say about Marky- he is the way he is and is an important part of the Ramones history- hands down.
I give this book a high rating- I enjoyed it because it gives Marky's viewpoint within the band, and took us back to him growing up, about his first band, and how he came to be part of the Ramones, trials and tribulations and all.
Those of us who know about the Ramones are familiar with the internal problems within the group, and this gives Marky's perspective about it all. There are few official books alongside this and Monty's book, and if you are a Ramones fan- do yourself a favor and pick this up.
Some criticize the book because of Marky's ways, but the book itself is a memoir of his life, and I appreciate him sharing that with us fans. I don't agree with everything he says, or rather his way of thinking, but I love the Ramones, and this book isn't about convincing that he is right or wrong, it's about his perspective and experiences. For the enjoyment and insight I give this 5/5.
I enjoyed reading this book. Nothing negative to say about Marky- he is the way he is and is an important part of the Ramones history- hands down.
I give this book a high rating- I enjoyed it because it gives Marky's viewpoint within the band, and took us back to him growing up, about his first band, and how he came to be part of the Ramones, trials and tribulations and all.
Those of us who know about the Ramones are familiar with the internal problems within the group, and this gives Marky's perspective about it all. There are few official books alongside this and Monty's book, and if you are a Ramones fan- do yourself a favor and pick this up.
Some criticize the book because of Marky's ways, but the book itself is a memoir of his life, and I appreciate him sharing that with us fans. I don't agree with everything he says, or rather his way of thinking, but I love the Ramones, and this book isn't about convincing that he is right or wrong, it's about his perspective and experiences. For the enjoyment and insight I give this 5/5.
June 4, 2015
Marky Ramone takes us from his participation in Estus and Dust to the end of the Ramones. Along the, we are in the van for some of the 1700 shows Marky did with the group to learn how deep the division was between OCD Joey, also documented in I Slept With Joey Ramone, and conservative Johnny Ramone and the extremes of Dee Dee's wide-ranging substance abuse. Marky confronts and defeats his own alcoholism at great cost through AA and becoming a bike messenger for a while. Dee Dee gets painted as the creative principal and music director of the group through his extensive song writing an teaching guitar parts to John. This is a much better picture than the drug casualty and failed rapper that marks the end of his career.
This edition has an interview with the author but adds nothing as the interviewer is from the publisher and seems to really know nothing about Marky or The Ramones.
This edition has an interview with the author but adds nothing as the interviewer is from the publisher and seems to really know nothing about Marky or The Ramones.
January 23, 2022
I was predisposed to not like “Marky’s” memoir but I learned quite a bit from reading it. To his credit, he didn’t spend too much time on Joey’s mental health issues or Johnny’s politics or DeeDee’s drug addiction, which could be ripe for exploring.
What I learned: with his high school sweetheart still, highly regarded drummer (somehow I imagined drumming for the Ramones would just be smashing stuff), owned up to his faults as he descended into alcoholism that impacted his career…. It seemed like he really grew to care about his band-mates, though like many families they had long periods of feuding and disarray. The craziest thing was his friendship with Phil Spector, including how Phil Spector described Lana’s death.
A niche read for fans.
What I learned: with his high school sweetheart still, highly regarded drummer (somehow I imagined drumming for the Ramones would just be smashing stuff), owned up to his faults as he descended into alcoholism that impacted his career…. It seemed like he really grew to care about his band-mates, though like many families they had long periods of feuding and disarray. The craziest thing was his friendship with Phil Spector, including how Phil Spector described Lana’s death.
A niche read for fans.
April 29, 2022
Eu realmente fiquei muito impressionado com o livro. Marky conta tudo o que eu sempre quis saber sobre como eles funcionavam juntos fora dos holofotes. Realmente mudou minha perspectiva diante da história ali contada.
Amores, brigas, drogas e muito Punk! Uma história muito bem contada, aproveitando todos os momentos marcantes para o autor de uma forma que me deixou com uma vontade de que o livro não chegasse ao fim. Inclusive, nas partes finais, eu comecei a ler mais devagar para não acabar logo.
É um livro para fãs da banda, fãs do Punk, do CBGB e de todo aquele movimento contra cultural que dominou uma parte de NY.
Ainda não leu? Está esperando o que?
Conte 1,2,3,4 e Hey Ho, Let's go!!!
Amores, brigas, drogas e muito Punk! Uma história muito bem contada, aproveitando todos os momentos marcantes para o autor de uma forma que me deixou com uma vontade de que o livro não chegasse ao fim. Inclusive, nas partes finais, eu comecei a ler mais devagar para não acabar logo.
É um livro para fãs da banda, fãs do Punk, do CBGB e de todo aquele movimento contra cultural que dominou uma parte de NY.
Ainda não leu? Está esperando o que?
Conte 1,2,3,4 e Hey Ho, Let's go!!!
June 21, 2017
Great account about the ramones and punk rock history since i never knew too much about- except their music
. It's sad that the bandmembers didn't really get along but I would never of known that if I hadn't read this book. There were so many good stories in it - and it was a good reunion after he was kicked out with alcoholism and that he was able to go back to the Ramones.
There was an interview at the end of the book so you understood why the audiobook company chose a narrator to be an actor instead of Marky Ramone: his Brooklyn accent is so strong
. It's sad that the bandmembers didn't really get along but I would never of known that if I hadn't read this book. There were so many good stories in it - and it was a good reunion after he was kicked out with alcoholism and that he was able to go back to the Ramones.
There was an interview at the end of the book so you understood why the audiobook company chose a narrator to be an actor instead of Marky Ramone: his Brooklyn accent is so strong
April 13, 2015
WOW. Of course a must-read for any Ramones/punk rock/rock'n'roll fan. The style is SO Ramone - no real flowery language or witty turn-of-phrases, perhaps some cliche humor, but very honest, straightforward, no slickness, no frills, not a single page I wanted to skim through.
For me, the last few chapters dealing with the band's break-up and deaths of the founding members were hard to read on an emotional level. Gonna have to buy this book
For me, the last few chapters dealing with the band's break-up and deaths of the founding members were hard to read on an emotional level. Gonna have to buy this book
January 12, 2017
I enjoyed this book. Outside of his Sirius show, I knew very little of Marky. On the radio, he comes off as a dope with a bit of an ego who loves great music. In his book, he comes off as very thoughtful and humble, the glue holding the band together until his own personal problems. I'm sure reality is somewhere in the middle.
After reading this, I'm dying to read more stuff on the Ramones. Get the other side of the story from the others in and around the band.
After reading this, I'm dying to read more stuff on the Ramones. Get the other side of the story from the others in and around the band.
June 26, 2021
I would've never thought it possible, but Marky might have written the best Ramones autobiography. This is helped by the excellent writing of fantastic stories. The man has LIVED a LIFE. Even though it's a trope in rock books to (for some reason) go all the way back to childhood, Marky's journey through music was worthy of that treatment. Ups, downs, more downs, semi-ups, BIG UPS, downs, and beyond. Well done.
September 12, 2016
Very good memoir by Marky
It started off a little slow for me, especially with the early years, but once it got into Marky's music career it really picked up. It's a very honest and classy look inside the Ramones' music and career without getting into trash talking or some of the negativity that can taint the aura of your favorite bands.
It started off a little slow for me, especially with the early years, but once it got into Marky's music career it really picked up. It's a very honest and classy look inside the Ramones' music and career without getting into trash talking or some of the negativity that can taint the aura of your favorite bands.
October 14, 2016
The Ramone I identified with the least, but I enjoyed getting to know him. Such a classic band. Entertaining book. At times it felt like I was in the van with them. That was the escape I was looking for.
December 30, 2014
Man, Johnny Ramone was a tool. They were not a happy family.
October 27, 2015
A Great book that seems to get into the personal story of the band without maliciously dishing dirt. It's a very easy read geared to young punks.
October 8, 2020
I see countless people around the globe wearing Ramones T-shirts. That’s a good thing, but I wonder if it’s like Che Guevara worn by people who don’t know who Che Guevara is. Or if they can name the guy on the shirt. -- Marky Ramone
Punk Rock Blitzkrieg: My Life as a Ramone by Mark Bell is the autobiography of Ramones drummer Marky Ramone. Marky Ramone tells his life story which is more than his life as a Ramone. Bell is the longest playing member of the band still alive. Joey, Johnny, Tommy, and Dee Dee have all died over the last decade and a half. Various cancers took three members, and Dee Dee died from a heroin overdose.
The New York underground of the 1970s was a rough life and forty years later the list of survivors is small and shrinking. Last year Tommy Ramone and Lou Reed became memories. Of the small crowd that remains, it is good to see the history documented by Bell and others like Patti Smith. It was an important time in American rock music. There has been a steady stream of autobiographies out over the last year or two and all of them have proved to show a different side of the music. Keith Richards dove in with the drugs and a bit of self-congratulations. Neil Young wrote as a folksy, marijuana influenced, storyteller. Patti Smith wrote mostly of herself in her biography of Robert Mapplethorpe, and Bell tells his story which is much more than a Ramones story.
Most people can name a song or two Ramones. AT&T/Cingular used “Blitzkrieg Bop” as part of an ad promotion, leaving out the part of “Shoot’em in the back now.” People with a casual knowledge will tell you of glue sniffing and heroin. If you did not catch the Ramones in the 1970s, they seemed a bit odd and out of place. Perhaps what Kiss is to hard rock, the Ramones are to the punk movement -- Innovators that left a mark and still have young fans today.
Bell takes us through is fairly normal early life in a middle class New York and into his early music career in Dust and his time with Wayne County and the Backstreet Boys. Wayne (Jayne) County was a transgender singer well known in the Max’s Kansas City clique. The band did not catch on it was a little too extreme even in the era of David Bowie and The New York Dolls. Bell had quite a start before even joining the Ramones. Once in the Ramones, Bell goes into a great deal of telling who the members were and what it was like being in the band. Johnny the boss and proud Republican. Joey and his OCD and physical ailments. Dee Dee the songwriter and "character" in the band who had more than a mild drug problem. Marky enjoyed drinking to excess. Among all the substance abuse, there is only one mention of the drug mostly closely associated with the band -- airplane glue. That reference, however, was used in its proper context though.
Blitzkrieg Bop takes the reader through a history of famous people of the era. Bell mentions meeting Jim Morrison, and when he mentions names it's not name dropping. He was genuinely thrilled with meeting these people. Aside from the music, tours, and concerts, Bell goes into detail covering the making of Rock and Roll High School and the collaboration with Phil Spector.
Bell writes an amazingly coherent and detailed account of his life and his time in the Ramones. This is probably the most detailed history of the Ramones published and one that honestly details the relationships between the band members. Bell remarks that original members Joey and Johnny played over 2,200 shows together and despite differences managed to hold together for twenty years. This is clearly one of the best rock and roll biographies out there -- honest, personal, and significant.
Punk Rock Blitzkrieg: My Life as a Ramone by Mark Bell is the autobiography of Ramones drummer Marky Ramone. Marky Ramone tells his life story which is more than his life as a Ramone. Bell is the longest playing member of the band still alive. Joey, Johnny, Tommy, and Dee Dee have all died over the last decade and a half. Various cancers took three members, and Dee Dee died from a heroin overdose.
The New York underground of the 1970s was a rough life and forty years later the list of survivors is small and shrinking. Last year Tommy Ramone and Lou Reed became memories. Of the small crowd that remains, it is good to see the history documented by Bell and others like Patti Smith. It was an important time in American rock music. There has been a steady stream of autobiographies out over the last year or two and all of them have proved to show a different side of the music. Keith Richards dove in with the drugs and a bit of self-congratulations. Neil Young wrote as a folksy, marijuana influenced, storyteller. Patti Smith wrote mostly of herself in her biography of Robert Mapplethorpe, and Bell tells his story which is much more than a Ramones story.
Most people can name a song or two Ramones. AT&T/Cingular used “Blitzkrieg Bop” as part of an ad promotion, leaving out the part of “Shoot’em in the back now.” People with a casual knowledge will tell you of glue sniffing and heroin. If you did not catch the Ramones in the 1970s, they seemed a bit odd and out of place. Perhaps what Kiss is to hard rock, the Ramones are to the punk movement -- Innovators that left a mark and still have young fans today.
Bell takes us through is fairly normal early life in a middle class New York and into his early music career in Dust and his time with Wayne County and the Backstreet Boys. Wayne (Jayne) County was a transgender singer well known in the Max’s Kansas City clique. The band did not catch on it was a little too extreme even in the era of David Bowie and The New York Dolls. Bell had quite a start before even joining the Ramones. Once in the Ramones, Bell goes into a great deal of telling who the members were and what it was like being in the band. Johnny the boss and proud Republican. Joey and his OCD and physical ailments. Dee Dee the songwriter and "character" in the band who had more than a mild drug problem. Marky enjoyed drinking to excess. Among all the substance abuse, there is only one mention of the drug mostly closely associated with the band -- airplane glue. That reference, however, was used in its proper context though.
Blitzkrieg Bop takes the reader through a history of famous people of the era. Bell mentions meeting Jim Morrison, and when he mentions names it's not name dropping. He was genuinely thrilled with meeting these people. Aside from the music, tours, and concerts, Bell goes into detail covering the making of Rock and Roll High School and the collaboration with Phil Spector.
Bell writes an amazingly coherent and detailed account of his life and his time in the Ramones. This is probably the most detailed history of the Ramones published and one that honestly details the relationships between the band members. Bell remarks that original members Joey and Johnny played over 2,200 shows together and despite differences managed to hold together for twenty years. This is clearly one of the best rock and roll biographies out there -- honest, personal, and significant.
July 1, 2016
This book was way to sober!
Is Marky really this wise now? Possibly? He does have his own Punk radio show and has a great professor like understanding of music history. This book is worth reading just for that.
I think I finally got all these Ramones characters memorized: here goes. Joey (singer), Johnny (guitar), Dee Dee (bass), Tommy (drums).
Then we move on to the legendary fill ins: Marky (drums), C.J. (bass), And those 2 other guys who attempted temporarily. Who cares - It's not like they were Lynyrd Skynyrd. :cP
This whole book constantly asks the question: what is Punk? Is it Johnny's defiant stands and stubbornness? Is it Dee Dee's comical rebelliousness? Or maybe Joey's outsider longings? I'm pretty sure it's NOT Marky's hardworking ethics and professionalism through a long term career. (but definitely his self-destructive drinking binges and anarchy like goodtime behavior). Mostly it's putting all these nuts in a Van and shaking them up dysfunctionally.
Punk often fails to ever be 100% punk. It reminds me of the young Anarchist who dared to chat with me for a few hours. He claimed that Anarchy leads to peace and a loving protective purpose. I then told him: "you're NOT an anarchist then - You're just a poorly applied Republican Hippy."
Similar to the Ramones endlessly complaining about Album Sales, Tours, Respect, Media appreciation and placement, art and money. Sounds like Capitalism at its finest. How PUNK! (Johnny would be proud!)
The only truly Punk thing is death --- but then again, defying death is somewhat Punk. Most punks stupidly and comically assume they are immortal.
There is rarely a reason to take the Ramones seriously. Marky tries to do this on occasion, even says how some of the lyrics are deep and meaningful. That's like inviting the Pope to party like a Rockstar... it's okay, it's for charity.
It was interesting to hear Marky's side of the story. Especially his somewhat sober account of driving nastily drunk and ending up in a store surrounded by furniture and screaming people. It's amazing that normal citizens go to jail for such insanities - but NOT rockstars! I'm glad Marky got himself straightened out, but look at the wreckage. This is why all people should have children: so they learn to care about something other than themselves. Mark has come a LONG way. I applaud him, and especially his effort to help the other band members deal with their abuses and self-righteous insistencies. He should get some kind of award for that.
It was cool that Mark mentioned my favorite Twilight Zone episode: (pg. 16)
"On the Twilight Zone, there was always more than just a good sci-fi story. There was usually a real point to it. In one episode, a bookworm bank teller locks himself in the bank vault so he can read without being disturbed. While he's in there, an atomic bomb is dropped. Then the teller steps out of the vault, he's actually glad that everything and everyone is gone so he has nothing but time and books. Then, as he begins to read, his glasses fall off and break."
_____________
The Punk in me loves this story from Mark's youth: (pg. 11)
"On one particularly boring day, a friend had a cool idea to take a bunch of pillows and blankets, tie them together, and make a human dummy... WE carried the dummy up to the roof of our building and waited for a passerby. Timing was EVERYTHING... we would toss the dummy over the parapet wall and scream at the top of our lungs like someone jumped. It worked... people flipped out."
Bhahahahaha! Makes me wish I lived downtown with big buildings.
Like almost all music biographies: religion was mentioned. (not very much though). But enough to be interesting. Mark is pretty much an eternal agnostic. But here's a moment: (pg. 340)
Marky takes Joey to AA.
The other people at the meeting were fairly young and hip, and given the location that made sense. They told stories of how they were helped by friends, family, God, self-discipline, and self-respect...Joey was stuck in his seat sneering. On the walk back to his apartment, he avoided stepping on the cracks in the sidewalk and complained.
"Look, Merk, I'm not into this God crap."
"No one's telling you you have to be."
"Oh yeah, right," Joey said. "That's all I heard in there was God did this and God did that. what a bunch of S**T."
"Joey, that was a few people - not everybody. It's not about God in there. It's not about religion. It's about using whatever you can focus on to help you get sober. There's no written rules. The twelve steps are guidelines..."
"C'mon, Marc, it's like a cult."
Fun eh? How would Joey know what a cult is like? He went through reality in the most insane, obnoxious, self-righteous, self-absorbed delusional fashion. Which makes him somewhat normal - and pathetic (or a great candidate to be a CULT leader). At least God stands for something morally and eternally. I'm not sure what Joey ever stood for???
Yes Mark, there are written rules. God insists. Why get healthy in AA if you're just going to die soon anyway? There's a much bigger reason for life AND DEATH.
It is fascinating that Joey only heard about God did this and God did that. Why the hatred? Did God upset Joey's life in some way? Did He restrict his abuses or oppress his Rockstar freedoms? Did God ever step in and ruin his fun? Joey and the Ramones did that all by themselves. Only an idiot would find time to hate a god for it.
Now, horrifically perhaps, Joey/Dee Dee/Johnny are standing before God to give account of themselves and their musically abused gifts. I'm pretty sure God will say, "Boys, i'm not into this RAMONES CRAP. --- Why would I dare accept you into Jesus Kingdom?"
Hopefully some of them have the spiritual answer. That is, Jesus died for my sins so I will have HIS righteousness covering me when I stand before a Holy God. And as my favorite verses in the Bible says...
Luke 23:39-43
39One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him,d saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!” 40But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? 41And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” 42And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” 43And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
I hope Joey and Marky and Dee Dee and Johnny learned to fear God before it was too late. I'm doubtful. Sadly, they got to fully try things THEIR way - look at the mess it left them in.
Having said this, I've been a Ramones fan for over 30 years. Fun music is always needed on occasion.
Now I have to go back and read Johnny Ramones book again. Since he was the least drugged up, drunk, and mental. I somewhat trust his accounts, and barely at that. He had some weird issues as well.
But this book included some great details and moments that the other personal accounts left out - like the US FESTIVAL and some details about making classic albums. Now i'll see if I can find Marky's Raw footage movie.
Is Marky really this wise now? Possibly? He does have his own Punk radio show and has a great professor like understanding of music history. This book is worth reading just for that.
I think I finally got all these Ramones characters memorized: here goes. Joey (singer), Johnny (guitar), Dee Dee (bass), Tommy (drums).
Then we move on to the legendary fill ins: Marky (drums), C.J. (bass), And those 2 other guys who attempted temporarily. Who cares - It's not like they were Lynyrd Skynyrd. :cP
This whole book constantly asks the question: what is Punk? Is it Johnny's defiant stands and stubbornness? Is it Dee Dee's comical rebelliousness? Or maybe Joey's outsider longings? I'm pretty sure it's NOT Marky's hardworking ethics and professionalism through a long term career. (but definitely his self-destructive drinking binges and anarchy like goodtime behavior). Mostly it's putting all these nuts in a Van and shaking them up dysfunctionally.
Punk often fails to ever be 100% punk. It reminds me of the young Anarchist who dared to chat with me for a few hours. He claimed that Anarchy leads to peace and a loving protective purpose. I then told him: "you're NOT an anarchist then - You're just a poorly applied Republican Hippy."
Similar to the Ramones endlessly complaining about Album Sales, Tours, Respect, Media appreciation and placement, art and money. Sounds like Capitalism at its finest. How PUNK! (Johnny would be proud!)
The only truly Punk thing is death --- but then again, defying death is somewhat Punk. Most punks stupidly and comically assume they are immortal.
There is rarely a reason to take the Ramones seriously. Marky tries to do this on occasion, even says how some of the lyrics are deep and meaningful. That's like inviting the Pope to party like a Rockstar... it's okay, it's for charity.
It was interesting to hear Marky's side of the story. Especially his somewhat sober account of driving nastily drunk and ending up in a store surrounded by furniture and screaming people. It's amazing that normal citizens go to jail for such insanities - but NOT rockstars! I'm glad Marky got himself straightened out, but look at the wreckage. This is why all people should have children: so they learn to care about something other than themselves. Mark has come a LONG way. I applaud him, and especially his effort to help the other band members deal with their abuses and self-righteous insistencies. He should get some kind of award for that.
It was cool that Mark mentioned my favorite Twilight Zone episode: (pg. 16)
"On the Twilight Zone, there was always more than just a good sci-fi story. There was usually a real point to it. In one episode, a bookworm bank teller locks himself in the bank vault so he can read without being disturbed. While he's in there, an atomic bomb is dropped. Then the teller steps out of the vault, he's actually glad that everything and everyone is gone so he has nothing but time and books. Then, as he begins to read, his glasses fall off and break."
_____________
The Punk in me loves this story from Mark's youth: (pg. 11)
"On one particularly boring day, a friend had a cool idea to take a bunch of pillows and blankets, tie them together, and make a human dummy... WE carried the dummy up to the roof of our building and waited for a passerby. Timing was EVERYTHING... we would toss the dummy over the parapet wall and scream at the top of our lungs like someone jumped. It worked... people flipped out."
Bhahahahaha! Makes me wish I lived downtown with big buildings.
Like almost all music biographies: religion was mentioned. (not very much though). But enough to be interesting. Mark is pretty much an eternal agnostic. But here's a moment: (pg. 340)
Marky takes Joey to AA.
The other people at the meeting were fairly young and hip, and given the location that made sense. They told stories of how they were helped by friends, family, God, self-discipline, and self-respect...Joey was stuck in his seat sneering. On the walk back to his apartment, he avoided stepping on the cracks in the sidewalk and complained.
"Look, Merk, I'm not into this God crap."
"No one's telling you you have to be."
"Oh yeah, right," Joey said. "That's all I heard in there was God did this and God did that. what a bunch of S**T."
"Joey, that was a few people - not everybody. It's not about God in there. It's not about religion. It's about using whatever you can focus on to help you get sober. There's no written rules. The twelve steps are guidelines..."
"C'mon, Marc, it's like a cult."
Fun eh? How would Joey know what a cult is like? He went through reality in the most insane, obnoxious, self-righteous, self-absorbed delusional fashion. Which makes him somewhat normal - and pathetic (or a great candidate to be a CULT leader). At least God stands for something morally and eternally. I'm not sure what Joey ever stood for???
Yes Mark, there are written rules. God insists. Why get healthy in AA if you're just going to die soon anyway? There's a much bigger reason for life AND DEATH.
It is fascinating that Joey only heard about God did this and God did that. Why the hatred? Did God upset Joey's life in some way? Did He restrict his abuses or oppress his Rockstar freedoms? Did God ever step in and ruin his fun? Joey and the Ramones did that all by themselves. Only an idiot would find time to hate a god for it.
Now, horrifically perhaps, Joey/Dee Dee/Johnny are standing before God to give account of themselves and their musically abused gifts. I'm pretty sure God will say, "Boys, i'm not into this RAMONES CRAP. --- Why would I dare accept you into Jesus Kingdom?"
Hopefully some of them have the spiritual answer. That is, Jesus died for my sins so I will have HIS righteousness covering me when I stand before a Holy God. And as my favorite verses in the Bible says...
Luke 23:39-43
39One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him,d saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!” 40But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? 41And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” 42And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” 43And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
I hope Joey and Marky and Dee Dee and Johnny learned to fear God before it was too late. I'm doubtful. Sadly, they got to fully try things THEIR way - look at the mess it left them in.
Having said this, I've been a Ramones fan for over 30 years. Fun music is always needed on occasion.
Now I have to go back and read Johnny Ramones book again. Since he was the least drugged up, drunk, and mental. I somewhat trust his accounts, and barely at that. He had some weird issues as well.
But this book included some great details and moments that the other personal accounts left out - like the US FESTIVAL and some details about making classic albums. Now i'll see if I can find Marky's Raw footage movie.
August 13, 2020
It's tough to rate and review an autobiography. I'm not really sure what criteria I should use, or what people would want to know about the book.
First, I'll say that the book is very much the auto-biography of Marc Bell. It seems like most people are here for his history with the Ramones, but maybe 60% of the book isn't about the Ramones. Marc Bell certainly had an interesting life, so I don't think that's a problem.
When it comes to his history with the Ramones, though, I can't help but sense that there are some important details missing from this story. Markey Ramone comes off as the rock of the band in this. He was always trying to manage the clashing personalities of the others, and to make peace. His firing from the band is described as being the result of a few minor mistakes he made in relation to his drinking. I'm sure that's how he perceived it at the time. From his perspective everything goes from being fine to suddenly everyone is very upset with him for seemingly no reason.
That may have been how it seemed to him, but I very much doubt that it was the objective reality. Marc Bell seems reluctant to dive into his own bad behavior in the pages of the book. He is comfortable discussing the consequences, but I suspect things played out a lot less flatteringly than they were portrayed here. He isn't as reluctant about the other Ramones' problems. We hear plenty about John's disgusting racism and penchant for hitting women. Lots about Joey's hygiene and OCD. Lots about Dee Dee's addiction, adultery, and a few bits of racism from him as well. The whole time Markey is describing himself as the adult in the room, and a stabilizing influence. It seemed a little off.
As a highly subjective take on the history of The Ramones, though, it's very interesting. I'd recommend it to any fan of the band.
First, I'll say that the book is very much the auto-biography of Marc Bell. It seems like most people are here for his history with the Ramones, but maybe 60% of the book isn't about the Ramones. Marc Bell certainly had an interesting life, so I don't think that's a problem.
When it comes to his history with the Ramones, though, I can't help but sense that there are some important details missing from this story. Markey Ramone comes off as the rock of the band in this. He was always trying to manage the clashing personalities of the others, and to make peace. His firing from the band is described as being the result of a few minor mistakes he made in relation to his drinking. I'm sure that's how he perceived it at the time. From his perspective everything goes from being fine to suddenly everyone is very upset with him for seemingly no reason.
That may have been how it seemed to him, but I very much doubt that it was the objective reality. Marc Bell seems reluctant to dive into his own bad behavior in the pages of the book. He is comfortable discussing the consequences, but I suspect things played out a lot less flatteringly than they were portrayed here. He isn't as reluctant about the other Ramones' problems. We hear plenty about John's disgusting racism and penchant for hitting women. Lots about Joey's hygiene and OCD. Lots about Dee Dee's addiction, adultery, and a few bits of racism from him as well. The whole time Markey is describing himself as the adult in the room, and a stabilizing influence. It seemed a little off.
As a highly subjective take on the history of The Ramones, though, it's very interesting. I'd recommend it to any fan of the band.
January 17, 2024
I was really curious to read this book after I heard that he covers the reason the Ramones didn't show up to their gig in Virginia Beach in 1979 - why? Because I was good friends with the band, Tango Storm that "opened" for them. Tango actually did a lot of Ramones covers but didn't that night for obvious reasons. After their set they were backstage, which was the kitchen of the club, when the owner offerred them a thousand dollars to go back on stage. The band was confused and then the owner told them the Ramones were not there and were not showing up. Tango Storm asked the owner to give them 15 mins to get their gear so they could get the hell out. By the time they got downstairs, the punks had set fire to the bushes at McDonald's across the street. I'm not sure if the other Ramones were actually in town but Tango's drummer knew their songs and probably could have sat in for Markey but hindsight is 20/20. Now we know it was all Markey's fault for not leaving Ohio with the band. I still love the Ramones but I had no idea how really F'ked up they were until I read this book
March 27, 2025
Great autobiography of Marky Ramone that follows his humble upbringing in New York as he witnesses events like the moon landing, Kennedy as president, Martin Luther King being assassinated, and more. Always an outsider and a rebel, Marky Ramone goes from one adventure to another, and one band to another, until he finds his sweet spot in the Ramones. It's cool to feel like you're up close and personal with him as he tries to find himself and where he really fits in.
As a musician, I enjoyed the attention to detail and little things that made his sound a little different, such as his request for a bigger bass drum. I was keen to learn of Marky's influencers, like The Who and Alice Cooper. It was interesting to read about his experiences of seeing Jim Morrison and John Lennon in person.
This book is a real treasure trove and time capsule as it pertains to unearthing lots of cool music history from the 60s to the present. The author painted a great picture of New York in the 70s that made me want more!
The story is easy to read and fun to follow. It is unpretentious and funny at times. I would highly reccomend it.
As a musician, I enjoyed the attention to detail and little things that made his sound a little different, such as his request for a bigger bass drum. I was keen to learn of Marky's influencers, like The Who and Alice Cooper. It was interesting to read about his experiences of seeing Jim Morrison and John Lennon in person.
This book is a real treasure trove and time capsule as it pertains to unearthing lots of cool music history from the 60s to the present. The author painted a great picture of New York in the 70s that made me want more!
The story is easy to read and fun to follow. It is unpretentious and funny at times. I would highly reccomend it.
May 28, 2018
Did Marky write this book just to slag on Johnny Ramone? It definitely feels like that more times than not.
Did Marky write this book to make sure he always came off the best of the bunch? Probably.
Is it still a fantastic and fun read from a pivotal character from the original NYC scene? Oh hell yeah.
I'm happy that I got to see The Ramones more than a few times back in their heyday (meaning well before CJ joined) when they didn't reach the stage until two in the morning and by the time you got home the sun was coming up and getting to know just how (bleeped) up each member of the band was it's a miracle that they wrote so many amazing songs and somehow stuck it out to play over two thousand live shows as well.
"A lot of being in a band feels like pushing a cart up a hill... There is the fear that if you let go, the cart will start to roll backward and pick up steam. But if you're really lucky, there comes a time when the cart is rolling downhill forward and all you have to do is enjoy the ride."
Did Marky write this book to make sure he always came off the best of the bunch? Probably.
Is it still a fantastic and fun read from a pivotal character from the original NYC scene? Oh hell yeah.
I'm happy that I got to see The Ramones more than a few times back in their heyday (meaning well before CJ joined) when they didn't reach the stage until two in the morning and by the time you got home the sun was coming up and getting to know just how (bleeped) up each member of the band was it's a miracle that they wrote so many amazing songs and somehow stuck it out to play over two thousand live shows as well.
"A lot of being in a band feels like pushing a cart up a hill... There is the fear that if you let go, the cart will start to roll backward and pick up steam. But if you're really lucky, there comes a time when the cart is rolling downhill forward and all you have to do is enjoy the ride."
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