Richie Ramone's legacy isn't founded purely on guilt by association with The Ramones. Whereas drummers that moved in and out of the legendary band's ranks stuck to the high-speed, 4/4 format and played what they were told, Richie Ramone wrote songs ("Somebody Put Something in my Drink"), sang, and pushed the band into new directions of heaviness and speed. He now fronts his own band, takes a turn at the drums, and has released the CD "Entitled." The Ramones is a band way beyond important in its impact on rock 'n' roll (the band is my Beatles), and any opportunity to see a remaining member (sadly, only the drummers remain) should not be missed. Gabba Gabba Hey.

Richie Ramone plays Thursday, February 20, at Lovin' Cup, 300 Park Point. 8 p.m. $15-$20. lovincup.com.