CJ Says: A Ramones Podcast

This week on CJ Says, we sit down with one of the true originals of American punk rock 'n' roll. Nikki Corvette is a singer, songwriter, and unapologetic rock and roller whose story begins—much like proto-punk pioneers The Stooges and MC5—in the Motor City of Detroit. Emerging from a scene that prized attitude and authenticity, Nikki quietly embodies both. Equal parts primitive punk rock and infec...

Hey kids! Welcome to Episode 011 of CJ Says: A Ramones Podcast. This week, we drop the needle on the Ramones' sixth studio album, Pleasant Dreams , which might just be the most underrated record of their entire career. Before we begin, a huge thank you to everyone who’s already subscribed to the show over on Patreon. Your enthusiasm, support, and belief in this little corner of the Ramones univers...

There are photographers who take pictures, and there are those who capture culture itself in their images. Bob Gruen firmly falls into the latter group. In this week’s guest interview, we sit down with the legendary rock 'n’ roll documentarian whose images helped define the look and spirit of 1970s New York - and beyond. While other photographers exclusively chased stars, Bob Gruen was drawn to th...

In Episode 009 of CJ Says: A Ramones Podcast, we step into the strange and fascinating world of the Ramones’ fifth studio album, 'End of the Century' — an album forever suspended between the neon glow of pure pop ambition and the battered leather jacket of punk rock purity. It’s 1980. The Ramones have already helped redraw the map of modern music, and now they find themselves in the hands of eccen...

When the topic of punk rock comes up in conversation, the Ramones are often at the forefront of the discussion. Their raw energy and unique sound changed the landscape of music indefinitely. In Episode 008 of CJ Says, we enjoy a fascinating conversation with Kid Congo Powers - former president of the West Coast Ramones Fan Club and guitarist in The Gun Club, The Cramps & Nick Cave and the Bad...

Road to Ruin was the last of the "Big Four" Ramones’ records. This album marked a turning point for the band. With new drummer Marky Ramone stepping in to fill Tommy’s shoes, and Tommy & Ed Stasium manning the production dials, the sound of the band transformed in their quest for commercial success. The energy was still raw, but by this point the Ramones were also pushing boundaries and experi...

Ever wondered how Harley Flanagan’s chaotic upbringing shaped his hardcore spirit? In Episode 006 of CJ Says, Harley shares how his wild childhood fuelled his passion for music and community - from his misspent youth running loose on the mean streets of NYC, to his introduction to skinhead culture in Belfast, Northern Ireland, to making music that was louder than the noise inside his head, it’s al...

This week we’re taking a Deep Dive into the third album by Ramones, which many people believe to be their defining musical statement, Rocket to Russia, released November 4, 1977. From the razor sharp production to its pop-infused singles that defined a generation, come with us now as we discuss what makes this record a true punk rock masterpiece, and why it remains a firm favourite among fans and...

Slim Jim Phantom from Stray Cats joins CJ & Matt this week for the second CJ Says Guest Interview... If you've ever wondered how Stray Cats developed their unmistakable style of punk-infused rockabilly with a New York twist, then look no further, because The Honest Mechanic is here to spill the beans in this week's in-depth interview. According to Slim Jim, Stray Cats drew heavily from the ear...

Welcome to Episode 003 of CJ Says: A Ramones Podcast. We're back on the record reviews this week, and our second Deep Dive episode delves into the sophomore album by Ramones, Leave Home , released on January 10, 1977. With their second LP, the band aimed to refine their sound, striving for a more polished product in their quest for mainstream success, while still staying true to the raw punk energ...

Welcome to the first ever CJ Says Guest Interview, featuring the legendary Duff McKagan of Guns N' Roses and Velvet Revolver. In this episode, Duff shares his personal journey from his humble punk rock beginnings to playing in some of the biggest bands in the world, and the music and experiences that shaped his life along the way. Duff's love for punk rock dates back to his childhood growing up in...

Welcome to the first official episode of CJ Says: A Ramones Podcast.  We begin where all good stories should: at the start! The debut self-titled album by Ramones was released on this day, fifty years ago… What better date to launch a Ramones-centric podcast than the 50th anniversary of their classic debut record?  Whether you're brand new to the music of Ramones, or a long-time fan of t...

Hey kids! Welcome to your new favourite podcast... CJ Says: A Ramones Podcast. A weekly deep dive into the music, legacy & impact of the world-famous Ramones. Hosted by CJ Ramone & Matt Stocks. Everything you need to know about the podcast is in this introductory episode - so dive in, and let's begin, as we embark on a sonic exploration of the greatest punk band of all-time. Be sure to che...