Name; Monte A. Melnick
Age; 57
Bands; Triad (1968 – 1969) and Butch (1972 – 1973) with Tommy Ramone
Thirty Days Out (1970 – 1972) two albums put out on Reprise Records.
Role in Band; Ramones Tour Manager 1974 - 1996
How did it all begin? I was a school friend of Tommy Ramone and played in a
few bands with him. Tommy and I then ran Performance Studios in NYC a
rehearsal studio where the Ramones got together.
Who were your original influences? Jimi Hendrix, Cream, Who, Beatles,
Rolling Stones etc. etc. etc. I went to the original Woodstock.
Who are your current influences? I listen to a lot of Baroque music now, it
calms my nerves.
What is your proudest moment as a musician? Being part of the Ramones
music legacy speaks for itself.
What do you think would have been your path through life if you had
never gotten involved with the music industry? I like architecture.
When you look back on your musical path to this point. What are your
deepest regrets? That the Ramones never got as big as they are now when
they were around.
If you had the opportunity to start over, what would you change? Nothing
Who has been the most influential person in your life and why? Tommy
Ramone, because of him I got involved in music.
Please summarize the highlights & lowlights of your Punk career.
High - Working with the Ramones all those years and writing the book “On The
Road With The Ramones”
Low - Having to be around when Joey, Dee Dee and Johnny passed away.
What are your thoughts on the current "Punk" scene? Seems very healthy
and vital.
How much has it changed or stayed the same since you got involved in it?
The internet wasn't around back then, that's a big factor in today's music business.
What are your plans for the future? I now have a great job as the Audio
Visual Associate at the New York Hall Of Science.
