A stake in late legendary Ramones singer Joey Ramone's music catalog has been acquired by the Primary Wave Music publishing company.
The agreement includes non-exclusive rights to license Ramone's name and likeness as well as income from many songs from the pioneering punk band's catalog.
Among the many classic Ramones tunes included in the deal are "Do You Remember Rock 'n' Roll Radio," "Sheena Is a Punk Rocker," "I Wanna Be Sedated" and "Rockaway Beach."
Mitchel Hyman a.k.a. Mickey Leigh, Joey's brother and only heir, says of the agreement, "I'm happy to welcome Primary Wave as partners in my brother's interests in Ramones. I'm thoroughly convinced of their eagerness to perpetuate his legacy, and their sincerity about doing it in a way that will never compromise his credibility. I, very much, am looking forward to working with them."
Adds Primary executive Lexi Todd, "Joey Ramone was a total original — his songwriting, style, and voice are all undeniably unique and immediately recognizable still today. A counterculture icon and prime mover of punk rock, Ramones demonstrated first-hand the power of music in influencing culture and built a foundation that has influenced decades of musicians. We're thrilled to have the opportunity to continue the legacy of Joey Ramone and Ramones catalog.
Born Jeffrey Hyman, Joey co-founded the Ramones in 1974 and served as the group's lead singer and one of its main songwriters throughout the band's 20-plus-year history. He died of cancer in April 2001, a month before his 50th birthday. Joey was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with the Ramones in 2002.
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