RAMONES An American Band

by Jim Bessman

«Before the Ramones, there was nothing» –A rock critic

«The Ramones were the only outside band that everyone looked up to.» –Chrissie Hynde

«They’ve remained true to their vision of rock’n’ roll as fast, fun music.» –Kurt Loder

«They speak up for outcasts and disturbed individuals.» –Jon Pareles, the New York Times

«People say that your music is loud and destructive and lethal to mice, but I think you’re the Beethovens of our time.» –from Rock ‘n’ Roll High School

«Virtually every current commercial guideline in rock is broken somewhere in the Ramones.» –Robert Hillburn

«We’re not trying to compete with Bruce Springsteen.» –Tommy Ramone