About this album
Where they were
Released on September 22, 1978, 'Road to Ruin' is the Ramones' fourth studio album during a pivotal time in their career. Following the iconic 'Rocket to Russia', this album marked their transition into a more polished sound while retaining their punk roots. It showcased the band's growing songwriting prowess as they began to influence the emerging pop-punk genre.
Why it matters
'Road to Ruin' is notable for its commercial success, reaching No. 103 on the Billboard 200, and featuring the enduring anthem 'I Wanna Be Sedated'. The album solidified the Ramones' status in the punk rock movement and inspired countless bands, making it a key release in the evolution of pop-punk music.
Essential tracks
- "I Wanna Be Sedated" — This track epitomizes the Ramones' signature sound with its infectious chorus and themes of youthful frustration, becoming one of their most recognizable songs.
- "I Just Want to Have Something to Do" — Opening the album, this song captures the restless spirit of youth with a catchy hook that draws listeners into the Ramones' world.
- "Questioningly" — With its introspective lyrics and dynamic arrangement, this track showcases a more mature side of the band while maintaining their punk energy.
- "Rock ’n’ Roll High School" — An anthem for misfit youth, this song celebrates rebellion and has become synonymous with teenage culture, further cementing the band's legacy.
Release Date
September 22, 1978
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 I Just Want to Have Something to Do 2:41
- 2 I Wanted Everything 3:18
- 3 Don’t Come Close 2:45
- 4 I Don’t Want You 2:26
- 5 Needles and Pins 2:21
- 6 I’m Against It 2:07
- 7 I Wanna Be Sedated 2:29
- 8 Go Mental 2:42
- 9 Questioningly 3:21
- 10 She’s the One 2:13
- 11 Bad Brain 2:25
- 12 It’s a Long Way Back 2:22
- 13 I Want You Around (Ed Stasium version) 3:02
- 14 Rock ’n’ Roll High School (Ed Stasium version) 2:20
- 15 Live Medley: Blitzkrieg Bop / Teenage Lobotomy / California Sun / Pinhead / She’s the One 11:00
- 16 Come Back, She Cried A.K.A. I Walk Out (demo) 2:21
- 17 Yea, Yea (demo) 2:08
