“Sheena is a Punk Rocker” Served by the Ramones, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs and the London Punkharmonic Orchestra

Sit down any major rock star and they’ll tell you that one of the coolest and most influential rock bands of all time was the Ramones.

With their black-on-black uniform of skinny jeans, leather jackets and wild hair, the Ramones oozed rock ’n’ roll spirit from every pore. On top of that, they had furiously fast punk rock to match, encapsulating the frenzied spirit of New York City’s music scene in the ’70s.

1. 1st Serving
   The Ramones“Sheena Is a Punk Rocker” · The original, 1977fast, fun, repeat▶ Play it

   One of the most memorable tracks from the four-piece group is “Sheena Is a Punk Rocker.” The song has classic Ramones elements, from quickly strummed riffs to fun and repetitive lyrics.

2. 2nd Serving
   Yeah Yeah Yeahs“Sheena Is a Punk Rocker” · Heroes, 2009Karen O does Joey▶ Play it

   In 2009, indie rock band the Yeah Yeah Yeahs recorded a cover of the track for Heroes, a compilation album for the charity War Child. The group stayed true to the original spirit of the track, keeping the rhythm and instrumentals the same. Lead singer Karen O does her best Joey Ramone impression, singing the lyrics in her signature minxy coo.

3. 3rd Serving
   London Punkharmonic Orchestra“Sheena Is a Punk Rocker” · Orchestral, 1995violins and clarinetsNo longer online

   However, for those who wish the Ramones slowed it down a little (…if those people actually exist), the London Punkharmonic Orchestra has the version they’ve been looking for.

   “Sheena Is a Punk Rocker” becomes a beautifully upbeat orchestral number, full of violins and clarinets. The song is sans lyrics, but the spirit remains the same.