CJ Ramone is an American punk-rock bassist, singer, and songwriter best known for joining the Ramones in 1989 after original bassist Dee Dee Ramone left the band. Born Christopher Joseph Ward, he brought a younger, harder-edged presence to the Ramones’ final era, playing bass and contributing vocals on releases including Mondo Bizarro, Acid Eaters, ¡Adios Amigos!, and the live album Loco Live. After the Ramones retired, he formed and performed with projects including Los Gusanos and Bad Chopper before establishing a solo career with albums such as Reconquista, Last Chance to Dance, American Beauty, and The Holy Spell. His solo work carries forward the fast, melodic punk style associated with the Ramones while incorporating his own heavier rock influences, and he has also performed and recorded with Me First and the Gimme Gimmes.
