Jeffry Hyman (May 19, 1951 - April 15, 2001), better known as Joey Ramone, was the vocalist for the legendary punk rock group Ramones. He and fellow band-mate Johnny Ramone were the only two members who stayed with the band until their retirement in 1996. Joey grew up in Forest Hills, Queens. His mother, Charlotte, encouraged an interest in music in both Joey and his brother Mitchell Hyman a/k/a Mickey Leigh. ...show more

Jeffry Hyman (May 19, 1951 - April 15, 2001), better known as Joey Ramone, was the vocalist for the legendary punk rock group Ramones. He and fellow band-mate Johnny Ramone were the only two members who stayed with the band until their retirement in 1996. Joey grew up in Forest Hills, Queens. His mother, Charlotte, encouraged an interest in music in both Joey and his brother Mitchell Hyman a/k/a Mickey Leigh.

Charlotte spelled Joey's birth name 'Jeffry' without the 'e' as she wanted to make him different. Joey was a fan of The Who, among other bands (particularly "oldies"). He took up drums at 13, playing throughout his teen years, and was originally the drummer for the Ramones. Upon Tommy Ramone's suggestion that some particular parts of the band didn't work, he became the vocalist.

Joey and his bandmates attended Forest Hills High School. He was said to be the "heart and soul" of the Ramones, and his favorite songs they had performed were often the ballads and love songs. C.J. Ramone called Joey the "hippie of the group". ...show less