Rome Ramirez, known professionally as ROME, is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist celebrated for his contributions to the reggae and ska-punk genres. Born Roman René Ramirez on June 11, 1988, in Fremont, California, he grew up in a musically inclined family of Mexican heritage. His mother hailed from Guadalajara, and his father's parents were from Tijuana. At the age of 11, Ramirez began teaching himself to play the guitar, with one of the first songs he learned being from his favorite band, Sublime. In his late teens, Ramirez moved to Los Angeles to pursue a full-time music career.
His passion and talent led him to cross paths with Eric Wilson, the bassist of Sublime. The two quickly formed a friendship and began jamming together at Wilson's gatherings in Long Beach. This collaboration laid the foundation for the formation of Sublime with Rome in 2009, alongside drummer Bud Gaugh. The trio aimed to honor the legacy of Sublime while introducing new material to fans. Sublime with Rome made their debut at Cypress Hill's Smokeout Festival in 2009, receiving a warm reception from both longtime Sublime fans and new listeners.
In 2011, they released their first album, 'Yours Truly,' which showcased a blend of classic Sublime sounds with fresh influences. The album featured tracks like 'Panic' and 'Take It or Leave It,' highlighting Ramirez's songwriting abilities and vocal prowess. Over the years, the band underwent lineup changes, with Gaugh departing in 2011 and being replaced by various drummers, including Josh Freese and Carlos Verdugo. Despite these changes, Sublime with Rome continued to tour extensively and released two more albums: 'Sirens' in 2015 and 'Blessings' in 2019. Beyond his work with Sublime with Rome, Ramirez has made significant contributions to the reggae and alternative music scenes.
He co-wrote the hit song 'Lay Me Down' with The Dirty Heads, which topped the Billboard Alternative Songs chart. Additionally, he has collaborated with artists such as Enrique Iglesias, showcasing his versatility as a songwriter and producer. His ability to blend reggae rhythms with contemporary sounds has solidified his reputation as a dynamic force in the genre. In December 2023, Ramirez announced his decision to depart from Sublime with Rome at the end of 2024 to focus on his solo career. This transition marked a new chapter in his musical journey, allowing him to explore personal artistic endeavors.
In April 2025, he released the single 'Why Me,' reflecting his introspective songwriting style. Ramirez continues to engage with his fanbase through live performances, social media interactions, and new music releases, maintaining his commitment to creating authentic and resonant music. Throughout his career, ROME has demonstrated a deep respect for reggae music's roots while infusing it with modern elements. His dedication to his craft and ability to connect with audiences have made him a prominent figure in the reggae and alternative music landscapes. As he embarks on his solo endeavors, fans eagerly anticipate the evolution of his sound and the continued impact of his music.
