Johnny Ramone died yesterday aged 55 after a long fight against cancer. The Ramones guitarist, real name John Cummings, died at his LA home surrounded by his friends and family after a five year battle with prostate cancer. He will be cremated at a private service later today, a public tribute is also planned.
Johnny is the third member of the legendary punk band to die in the past few years. Singer Joey Ramone, real name Jeff Hyman, died in 2001 from lymphatic cancer. Bass player Dee Dee Ramone, real name Douglas Colvin, died of a drug overdose the following year. Tommy Ramone is now the only surviving member of the original line-up.
News of Johnny's cancer emerged last year when he was admitted to an LA hospital with an infection related to the illness. It was hoped he might recover after beginning an experimental therapy treatment, but in the end he failed to beat the disease.
A music event raising money for cancer charities was staged last Sunday to mark the 30th anniversary of the Ramones, featuring performances from the likes of the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Henry Rollins. Johnny spoke to the audience at the event after being telephoned live on stage by Rob Zombie.