The last of the original Ramones is gone with the death of Tommy Ramone (Erdelyi). Usually cited as the most grown-up and "together" of the original lineup, he only lasted three albums, but his driven eighth-note attack synched up with Johnny's 180-downstroke-per-minute guitar to create something amazing, original and inimitable. He had a unique hard-to-define cymbal timing that is a thing all its own. Tommy was well-regarded as a producer for many years, and as a big Replacements fan I have to mention he produced their excellent big-label debut, Tim. I never saw him play, but his influence has gone far beyond punk music. Thanks for the sounds, Tommy.
Man, I can't believe it, they're all gone, all the original members. Had great times seeing them at CBGB - its hard to believe, it seems like yesterday. Unreal.
I was lucky enough to see them many times, I was bit young to see the original line up. But they will remain one of my favorites. Always.