Sublime with Rome emerged in 2009 as a continuation of the influential ska-punk sound pioneered by the iconic band Sublime, born from a collaboration between original Sublime members Eric Wilson and Bud Gaugh with young vocalist and guitarist Rome Ramirez. The group initially performed under the Sublime name, but after a legal challenge from the estate of late Sublime frontman Bradley Nowell, they rebranded as Sublime with Rome in January 2010. This new incarnation carried forward the laid-back, genre-blending California vibe that made the original band legendary, while introducing Ramirez's own vocal and songwriting style.
The band quickly gained momentum, performing at festivals like the 2009 Smokeout and embarking on their first major tour in 2010. Their debut album, "Yours Truly," arrived in July 2011, debuting at No. 9 on the Billboard 200 chart and spawning the alternative radio hit "Panic." Shortly after the album's release, founding drummer Bud Gaugh departed and was replaced by the highly sought-after session drummer Josh Freese. This new lineup, featuring Wilson, Ramirez, and Freese, recorded the band's sophomore effort, "Sirens," which was released in 2015.
A period of lineup changes continued as Carlos Verdugo took over drumming duties in 2017. This trio, with Wilson and Ramirez as the consistent core, released the band's third album, "Blessings," in May 2019. Produced by renowned hitmaker Rob Cavallo, the album featured the single "Wicked Heart," which charted on Billboard's Alternative Songs list. The band maintained a steady touring schedule, keeping the Sublime legacy alive for a new generation of fans.
The year 2023 brought significant transition. After Verdugo's departure, drummer Joe Tomino joined following a brief stint by Jason Vick. This lineup released the "Tangerine Skies" EP in November 2023. Shortly thereafter, Rome Ramirez announced he would be leaving the band at the end of 2024 to pursue his solo career. In a surprising turn, founding bassist Eric Wilson announced his own departure in February 2024. With its foundational members gone, Sublime with Rome officially announced a farewell tour for 2024, marking the end of a fifteen-year chapter that bridged the legacy of a seminal 90s band with a new millennium's sound.