Johnny Ramone Annual Tribute in L.A. July 30

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Linda Ramone, the widow of Johnny Ramone, will present the 13th annual tribute to the Ramones’ guitarist July 30 at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery in L.A. The event is described as “a very fun event celebrating some cool things Johnny loved, like cult films, horror movies, collectibles and rock ’n’ roll.” Tickets are available here.

Johnny Ramone Tribute 2017 is further described in a press release as such: “Under the stars and moonlight on the Fairbanks Lawn, this year’s theme features a screening of one of Johnny’s favorite films, 1998’s cult classic Buffalo ’66, introduced by its director and star Vincent Gallo, who was Johnny’s very close and personal friend. In addition to the film screening, the 2017 Johnny Ramone Tribute will feature an exhibition of some rare never-before-seen Ramones memorabilia from Johnny and Tommy Ramone’s collection in the amazing mausoleum with Ramones art by Shepard Fairey, Lucas David and Shag. Also, a pop-up gallery from Morrison Hotel Gallery, DJ’d by the incredible Howie Pyro, food trucks and special celebrity appearances.”

The tribute will also feature a short ceremony in honor of “Johnny and Linda’s friend Chris Cornell, who has been laid to rest right next to Johnny.” The Soundgarden frontman took his own life on May 18 following a concert by his band.

Johnny Ramone (Photo courtesy of Linda Ramone)

The Johnny Ramone Tribute is a fundraising event for the Johnny and Linda Ramone Foundation, which provides funding for Dr. David Agus at the Center for Applied Medicine at the Keck School of Medicine at USC.

Several items belonging to Johnny will be displayed at the tribute, including his datebook, guitar and the jacket worn in the photo at right.

“Johnny once said that mental illness doesn’t get any easier as you get older, and hobbies can keep you sane,” Linda Ramone told Best Classic Bands.“That’s one thing I like about the tribute. It showcases a lot of items from hobbyists and collectors, while benefiting Dr. David Agus at the Center for Applied Medicine at the Keck School of Medicine at USC.”

Johnny Ramone, born John William Cummings, died in 2004 at age 55, following a five-year bout with prostate cancer. A statue of Johnny, based on a gift by Rob Zombie, was unveiled at Hollywood Forever in 2005. The other three original Ramones—Joey, Dee Dee and Tommy Ramon—have also passed away.

Previous tributes to Johnny at the site have drawn celebrities such as Eddie Vedder, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Johnny Depp and Lisa Marie and Priscilla Presley.

Watch the full 2014 Johnny Ramone tribute concert, featuring Rob Zombie and Steve Jones (of the Sex Pistols)