Tommy Ramone, the last surviving member of New York punk band The Ramones whose raucous and energetic drummer defined the band's unique sound, has died at his home in Queens, aged 62.

Tommy RamoneTommy Ramone [L] and Linda Ramone [R]

Ramone, born Erdelyi Tamasin Hungary, had been in hospice care after undergoing treatment for bile duct cancer. He played on the band's seminal first three albums, Ramones (1976), Leave Home (1977) and Rocket to Russia (1977). Later, he would leave to concentrate on studio work and was replaced in the group by Marc Bell, or Marky Ramone, however, he returned to co-produce the band's 1984 album Too Tough to Die. 

The Ramones began their career at the legendary CBGB club in Manhattan, a hotspot for punk rock and new wave bands of the time, including the Velvet Underground and Blondie. Known for their long shaggy hair, leather jackets and ripped jeans, The Ramones developed a cult following across the U.S and would tour relentlessly for two decades.

More: Check out our Ramones picture gallery

Lead singer Joey Ramone died in 2001, while Johnny Ramone died of prostate cancer in 2004. In 2002, bassist Dee Dee Ramone died from a heroin overdose. 

6Music DJ Lauren Laverne took to Twitter to pay tribute to Ramone.

"Incredibly sad to hear of the death of Tommy Ramone. My band were lucky enough to support the Ramones at their last London gig when we were 16.

"The fact that they would give a Brixton support slot to a bunch of kids who couldn't play, but whose music they liked says all.

"You need to know about what kind of people they are/were. RIP Tommy, thanks for the music."