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Coffee Break

Coffee Break: Classic and influential punk

The Ramones in a 1981 promotional photograph.
The Ramones in a 1981 promotional photograph.Sire Records/Getty Images

by Jill Riley and Anna Weggel

May 19, 2021

Today is Joey Ramone's birthday - best-known as lead vocalist of the punk rock band the Ramones.

Though he died in 2001, his legendary music lives on as the band is often cited among the first to define the punk rock sound. Although they enjoyed only limited commercial success, the Ramones heavily influenced the 1970s punk movement in both the United States and United Kingdom. Recognition of the band's importance developed over time, and they are now considered among rock's all-time greats.

In memory of Joey, what classic and influential punk rock do you want to hear, along with those they've inspired?

Respond with your song ideas in the comments below.

Have an idea for a Coffee Break topic? Submit your idea for a future theme and browse past Coffee Breaks in our archive.

Songs played

The Slits - Typical Girls
The Replacements - Customer
Descendents - Suburban Home
The Stooges - T.V. Eye
Bikini Kill - Rebel Girl
The Clash - White Riot
Ramones - Judy Is A Punk
Buzzcocks - Ever Fallen In Love (With Someone You Shouldn't've)
X-Ray Spex - Oh Bondage, Up Yours!
Richard Hell and The Voidoids - Blank Generation
Sex Pistols - Anarchy in the UK