CJ Ramone was the bassist for the Ramones from 1989 until their retirement in 1996. CJ replaced original bassist Dee Dee Ramone and was credited by founding members Johnny and Joey, as having brought new life to the band. In addition to playing bass guitar, CJ sang back up and lead vocals on some of their most popular songs as well as contributing songs of his own to the Ramones catalogue.

As the Ramones’ youngest member, he helped to reenergize the band’s live shows, and brought a breath of fresh air to the group. By the time the band put an end to their legendary career, he had played on a total of eight albums. Prior to joining the Ramones, CJ was in the United States Marine Corp and also played and recorded in a band called Guitar Pete’s Axe Attack.

Since the retirement of the Ramones, CJ formed the bands Los Gusanos, The Warm Jets, and Bad Chopper. In 2012 he released his first solo record as CJ Ramone titled Reconquista; followed by Last Chance to Dance, American Beauty, and The Holy Spell—all on the Fat Wreck Chords label—touring world-wide for each. He announced his retirement from touring in 2019, but was soon tapped by punk rock super-group, Me First and the Gimme Gimmes, to assume bass duties, and he continues to tour and record with the band including their most recent release, “Me First and the Gimme Gimmes ¡Blow it…at Madison’s Quinceañera! 2024, Fat Wreck Chords.

When CJ takes a break from being on the road, he dedicates his spare time to non-profit organizations devoted to the education and support of Autism research and outreach. He has participated in several Walk Now for Autism Speaks events and in 2015 he was awarded the EEDA’s Parent-Advocacy Award.

In the summer, he squeezes in a few Baja Truck races to scratch the adrenaline itch. He races a Class 7SX Ford Ranger with his CRR Motorsports Team and recently pitted for the RPI Racing team in the Score International Baja 400. He plans to continue racing as long as he can or as long as his wife will allow it.