Ramones Productions and Hollywood Forever have announced an official 50th anniversary tribute concert. On August 30th, the iconic Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles will host a special event presented by actor John Travolta in support of Dr. David Agus’ cancer research at the Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine.
For the first time, a new supergroup called Cretin Family will perform together. The group features Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong, Rancid’s Tim Armstrong, Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker, and former Ramones bassist CJ Ramone. They will dedicate the evening to performing classic Ramones songs, celebrating five decades since the band’s self-titled 1976 debut album revolutionized punk rock.
The night promises to be a comprehensive celebration of punk heritage and cinema. Attendees will experience a double feature film screening including the 50th anniversary edition of the 1976 horror classic “Carrie” alongside John Travolta’s new film “Propeller One-Way Night Coach.” Artist and activist Shepard Fairey will provide a DJ set between performances. Surprise guests are expected to join the festivities throughout the evening.
Hollywood Forever Cemetery holds particular significance as the final resting place for two of the Ramones’ founding members, Johnny and Dee Dee Ramone. This choice of venue underscores the deep respect the punk community holds for the band’s pioneering influence on the genre.
The Ramones’ 1976 self-titled debut album stands as one of the most influential punk records ever released. It established the template that countless bands would follow. The album’s raw energy, stripped-down instrumentation, and catchy melodies defined the punk aesthetic and helped launch the genre into mainstream consciousness. Fifty years later, the band’s impact remains undeniable, with their songs continuing to inspire musicians across multiple generations and genres.
The convergence of these punk legends for a single performance represents a rare moment in rock history. Each member of Cretin Family brings their own storied career and musical achievements to the tribute. They unite under the common purpose of honoring the Ramones’ revolutionary contributions to music. The event demonstrates how the band’s influence transcends individual careers and generations, creating a shared cultural touchstone for punk musicians worldwide.
The tribute reflects the enduring commercial and cultural appeal of the Ramones’ catalog. The event sold out shortly after tickets became available on July 7th, with demand far exceeding capacity. This sold-out status underscores the passionate fanbase that continues to celebrate the band’s music and legacy, even five decades after their debut album first challenged the musical establishment.
