Home Blog Page 1042

Career-Defining Moments From The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Queen and More

Eric Alper
-
0
Career-Defining Moments From The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Queen and More

All it takes is one perfect moment, at the right time, to make an artist or band go supersonic. Here are some of the jaw-dropping, heart-thumping, era-defining moments that rocketed legendary rock stars into the halls of fame and into our hearts forever:

  1. The Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show (1964): Imagine over 73 million Americans glued to their TVs, mesmerized by four lads from Liverpool, shaking up not just music but an entire generation’s way of life. This wasn’t just a TV appearance; it was the dawn of the British Invasion and the birth of Beatlemania, opening the floodgates for a cultural takeover that would define the 60s.
  2. Jimi Hendrix at the Monterey Pop Festival (1967): Picture Hendrix, a relatively unknown guitarist at the time, lighting his guitar on fire like it was nothing. The crowd was in awe. Hendrix’s fiery performance catapulted him into superstardom, making him the poster child of rock’s rebellious, anything-goes spirit.
  3. Woodstock Festival (1969): Think of the raw energy! Santana, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Joe Cocker—all legends in the making—blew minds and made history on this muddy New York farm, forever linking their music to a generation’s dreams, ideals, and, let’s face it, a little bit of hedonism.
  4. Queen at Live Aid (1985): Freddie Mercury had Wembley Stadium—and the entire world—eating out of the palm of his hand. That 20-minute set wasn’t just a performance; it was proof that rock and roll could be transcendent, that Queen was, and always would be, larger than life.
  5. Nirvana’s Nevermind Explosion (1991): Nevermind wasn’t just an album; it was a hand grenade tossed into the glitzy world of rock. Overnight, Nirvana became the voice of a generation that felt forgotten, angry, and ready to change everything. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” took off, and suddenly, grunge was everywhere.
  6. The Rolling Stones at Altamont Free Concert (1969): With violence and tragedy casting a dark shadow over the Altamont Free Concert, the Stones went from being just a rock band to becoming symbols of rock’s dangerous, untamable edge. It’s rock’s wild heart in all its messy, chaotic glory.
  7. Bruce Springsteen’s Born to Run Release (1975): This wasn’t just an album; it was a declaration. Bruce’s big sound, big dreams, and big heart captured every soul searching for meaning. Both Time and Newsweek put him on the cover, marking him as rock and roll’s next big thing, and boy, did he live up to it!
  8. Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” Music Video (1983): When the King of Pop dropped Thriller, he changed the music video game forever. Sure, Jackson ruled pop, but “Thriller” took rock’s edginess, mashed it up with his insane dance moves, and raised the bar for every artist out there, proving that a video could be as thrilling as a live show.
  9. Green Day’s American Idiot Release (2004): With American Idiot, Green Day reinvented themselves and showed the world punk could have a message. A full-on punk rock opera for a post-9/11 America, it became an anthem for an entire generation, stirring hearts and raising fists in arenas around the world.
  10. Radiohead’s OK Computer and Kid A Releases (1997, 2000): Radiohead didn’t just put out albums; they redefined what it meant to be a rock band. With OK Computer and Kid A, they took music into uncharted territory, blending rock, electronica, and existential angst, forever altering the soundscape of modern rock.
  11. Linkin Park’s Hybrid Theory (2000): A debut album that blasted through genre walls! Hybrid Theory made rock, hip-hop, and electronic fans lose their minds. Linkin Park spoke to everyone who ever felt misunderstood, reaching a global audience and creating a defining sound for the new millennium.
  12. Arctic Monkeys’ Social Media Rise and Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not (2006): Before viral was a thing, Arctic Monkeys were living it. Fans spread their raw, relatable sound on social media, creating a groundswell of support that launched them into stardom. Their debut album became the fastest-selling album in UK history and gave new meaning to what it means to break into rock.

These aren’t just career highlights; these are moments when lightning struck, when rock stars went from musicians to cultural icons. Each of these moments became part of rock’s DNA, forever shaping music and inspiring generations to turn up the volume and live louder.

Ottawa Folk Singer Christophe Elie Paints Harrowing Portrait Of Military Life With Re-Release Of Moving Single “A Soldier’s Face”

Eric Alper
-
0

With Remembrance Day around the corner, people will wear poppies and reflect on those who made the ultimate sacrifice. But for Ottawa-based political folksinger Christophe Elie, the annual ceremonies and moments of silence don’t compare to the mental, physical, and emotional turmoil each military person encounters in the line of duty. That cold reality is delicately but directly detailed in Elie’s latest single “A Soldier’s Face,” a terse but tremendous song epitomizing the horrors of war and the psychological scars that run just as deep as physical ones.

Elie says he wrote “A Soldier’s Face” on Remembrance Day (Veterans Day in America), 2013 and it first appeared on his 2016 album Bridging Borders. This latest version is the first time it’s been released digitally across all platforms “in recognition of the veterans living across Turtle Island” and the upcoming day of remembrance.” Elie says the song’s inspiration stemmed from wanting to do more than just attending or watching on television Remembrance Day ceremonies in Ottawa’s War Memorial including witnessing the red poppies placed on cenotaphs, planes flying overhead, cannons, salutes, the trumpeter performing “The Last Post,” and the silence afterwards. ”We should do more than just remember.”

“While it is always a beautiful, melancholic tribute to those lost to war and an important opportunity for veteran families to reflect on lives lost, I always wondered how this day is in support of the ultimate goal, ‘Never again,'” Elie says.

“Of course, we must remember those lives lost and the veterans still alive, who suffer the nightmares, grieve their brothers in arms and relive the carnage they’ve witnessed.

“But I’ve always thought, ‘Why are our veterans suffering, having to fight for mental health services while, at that time (then Canadian Prime Minister) Stephen Harper was shutting down veteran facilities that provided services to these former soldiers?’ We love the ceremony, but don’t want to pay the cost of wars passed.”

“A Soldier’s Face,” written by Elie and co-produced by Elie and Dave Draves,” features Draves providing subtle synthesizer in the background while Elie, on lead vocal and acoustic guitar, sings the gritty but genuine tale of war, bloodshed and being the “messenger of a country’s deadly message.” Elie wrote the song as a poem and then added music as accompaniment, which is the only time he’s used this approach in his rich career. Songs such as the legendary “And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda, “Barry McGuire’s “Eve Of Destruction” and Bob Dylan’s “A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall, would be fine comparisons to the depth emanating from “A Soldier’s Face.”

Lyrics from “A Soldier’s Face” were included, with Elie’s permission, in a book by American military veteran and photographer Roger Raepple for his 2021 book Remember – A Tribute to Veterans and their Families. Prior to that, the single inspired Elie to stage concerts in 2018 to raise money for the Guitars for Vets program.

“A Soldier’s Face” is the latest from Elie, who cites ’60s political folksingers such as McGuire, Dylan, Leonard Cohen, and Phil Ochs as influences. The son of a Haitian-born father who realized the injustices and inequality some faced, Elie would later become part of the group The Source before heading towards a solo career.
The musician, who has performed at the Montreal Folk Festival and various editions of the Folk Alliance International, released his debut album Deepest Shade Of Blue in 2008. His sophomore album Bridging Borders was released in 2016. Earlier in 2024, he released the poignant single “Columbia” concerning the situation in the Middle East, particularly Gaza. And in October, he released “Trump’s Tweets,” a timely single concerning the 2024 American Presidential election.

Now with “A Soldier’s Face” being re-released, Christophe Elie has given fans and listeners a song which should make people remember, support and honor soldiers past and present the other 364 days besides just the eleventh day of the eleventh month.

5 Surprising Facts About Beyoncé’s ‘Lemonade’

Eric Alper
-
0
5 Surprising Facts About Beyoncé’s ‘Lemonade’

When Beyoncé released Lemonade in 2016, it was quickly realized that this was more just an album, Lemonade was a visceral, genre-blending journey that showcased Beyoncé’s raw emotion, vulnerability, and unyielding strength. As she delved into themes of betrayal, resilience, and Black identity, the album became a defining moment in her career and a cultural milestone with touchtones still being felt today.

  1. It’s a Multimedia Masterpiece Inspired by Personal Pain and Family History
    Lemonade isn’t just an album—it’s a full visual and emotional experience that combines music, visuals, and poetry to illustrate Beyoncé’s journey through betrayal and healing. The album’s title even nods to her grandmother-in-law’s famous saying, “I was served lemons, but I made lemonade,” a metaphor for resilience that was passed down through generations.
  2. The Soundtrack to Lemonade Was Crafted Across Continents
    The album came to life in an unconventional way. Beyoncé and her team set up makeshift studios in various locations, from Los Angeles to Paris. For a month, they transformed hotel rooms into recording spaces, splitting sessions between Beyoncé and Jay-Z as they used their art to work through their marital struggles.
  3. It’s Packed with Powerful Collaborations
    This album brings together an eclectic range of artists, from Kendrick Lamar and Jack White to the Weeknd and James Blake. Each artist added something unique to Lemonade, creating a genre-blending mix of R&B, rock, hip hop, and even country. Sampled tracks from music legends like Isaac Hayes and Andy Williams add even more layers to the album’s emotional depth.
  4. Lemonade Brought Southern Culture and Black History to the Forefront
    Beyond the music, Lemonade is filled with visual and cultural references to Black history and the American South, including Louisiana Creole culture and African spirituality. Beyoncé even reappropriates genres like rock and country—often considered “white” genres—with songs like “Daddy Lessons” and “Don’t Hurt Yourself,” connecting these sounds back to their African American roots.
  5. It’s a Groundbreaking Work of Black Feminism
    Miriam Bale of Billboard called Lemonade “a revolutionary work of Black feminism.” The album and its accompanying film celebrate Black womanhood, featuring successful Black women from various fields and showcasing their resilience. Beyoncé included quotes from Malcolm X and portrayed powerful Black female figures throughout the film, shining a light on their experiences and triumphs.

As Lemonade continues to resonate years after its release, it stands as both a powerful piece of art and a cultural manifesto. Beyoncé didn’t just make an album; she created a multi-dimensional experience that celebrates resilience, love, and the journey of healing.

Check Out SEVENTEEN and Spotify’s CARAT Station Pop-ups in Seoul and New York City

Eric Alper
-
0
Check Out SEVENTEEN and Spotify’s CARAT Station Pop-ups in Seoul and New York City

Since their explosive debut in the K-Pop scene in 2015, SEVENTEEN has risen to global stardom, with more than 30 million user-generated playlists on Spotify featuring at least one track from the group. To heighten the anticipation for their [RIGHT HERE] world tour, which began in South Korea earlier this month, Spotify has partnered with SEVENTEEN to provide fans with the ultimate pre-concert experience.

Recognizing that the lead-up to a concert is when fan anticipation is at its peak—from playlist curation to outfit planning—Spotify is creating exclusive pop-up experiences for SEVENTEEN’s fanbase, known as CARATs. These pop-ups will appear ahead of shows in Seoul, New York City, and Tokyo, where visitors can immerse themselves in a magical train station dedicated to SEVENTEEN.

“At Spotify, we are committed to supporting Korean artists and enhancing their connections with listeners,” said Jungjoo Park, Head of Music at Spotify Korea. “Our collaboration with SEVENTEEN to bring fans CARAT Station exemplifies our dedication through the creation of unique experiences that celebrate their artistry and special bonds with CARATs.”

The journey began in Seoul in early October, followed by New York City this past weekend. Next, CARAT Station will make its way to Tokyo, creating excitement for fans in each location.

“Spotify’s Music teams in Korea, the U.S., and Japan worked closely together to create unique events that feel both authentic to each city and connected to the larger CARAT fandom,” said Lucy Davidson, Lead Label Partnerships at Spotify. “When we build an experience in partnership with an artist, we aim not only to bring fans further into their creative world but also to offer something one-of-a-kind that only Spotify can.”

CARAT Station Seoul
From October 5 through 11, CARATs in Seoul stepped into SEVENTEEN’s whimsical world. The metro station-themed pop-up in the Gwangjin District included photo ops, exclusive merch, and surprise fan chant sessions, all set against a vibrant backdrop.

“The subway-themed space displaying our fan chant guide videos left the biggest impression on us,” said SEVENTEEN. “The entire CARAT Station was beautifully decorated and filled with fun elements that made the time here truly enjoyable. We’re thrilled for more visitors to experience this treat. Have lots of fun and enjoy CARAT Station!”

CARAT Station New York City
On October 26, Spotify created an extraordinary CARAT experience in SoHo, New York City. Select SEVENTEEN fans in the area received exclusive invitations to the event, where they explored a magical train station among the clouds. Visitors could explore CARAT-themed kiosks, sample Korean treats at the Dining Concourse, visit the CARAT Street Flower Market, and shop for special items at the CARAT Souvenir Shop.

Before the event, SEVENTEEN members Joshua, Mingyu, DK, and Seungkwan stopped by to check out the space and left messages for CARATs to find at the photo station and wall.

And there’s more. Spotify’s SEVENTEEN WORLD TOUR [RIGHT HERE] playlist features some of the group’s biggest hits, offering the perfect soundtrack for fans gearing up for an unforgettable concert experience.

Ready to join in on [RIGHT HERE]? Hit play below.

 

Spotify’s EQUAL Celebrates the Growing Impact of Women on Poland’s Music Scene

Eric Alper
-
0
Spotify’s EQUAL Celebrates the Growing Impact of Women on Poland’s Music Scene

Spotify is committed to promoting gender equality in music through its EQUAL program. Since 2021, EQUAL has spotlighted women in audio via global partnerships, activations, new content experiences, and on- and off-platform support.

Listeners in over 180 markets can explore the EQUAL hub on Spotify, a dedicated space for this initiative. Since its launch, more than 40 EQUAL ambassadors have been supported, and numerous women have been promoted through curated playlists.

With so much incredible talent to celebrate, EQUAL continues to grow. Over the past two years, EQUAL Festivals have been held in countries including Argentina, Spain, Japan, France, Australia, and Mexico. Most recently, the EQUAL team made its mark in Poland, offering a platform for discussion on how women in the industry can thrive and inspire the next generation of Polish female creators through panels, networking, talks, and performances.

“Over the past few years, we’ve witnessed the rapid increase in popularity of Polish female artists, and at Spotify, we are committed to helping female artists connect with a global audience, providing them with the space to grow creatively and build their careers on a global scale,” said Katarzyna Czechowska, Spotify Artist and Label Partnership Lead, Poland. “With that said, we’re conscious about the continued need to support these artists and ensure equal opportunities together with the rest of the industry.”

Reflecting on the past five years of female-led music in Poland, here are some remarkable highlights:

  • More Polish female artists are building their careers on Spotify
    Since 2019, there has been nearly a 25% increase in Polish female artists uploading music to Spotify. Additionally, the annual streams of songs by Polish female artists have surpassed 2 billion, a nearly 600% rise since 2019.
  • They’re also making their presence felt on the charts
    In 2019, only one female artist, Daria Zawiałow, appeared on Spotify’s yearly Top 100 list for Poland. In 2024, the list includes seven women. Songs by female artists on the Polish Top 100 have nearly doubled from 2023, with a remarkable 1,200% increase since 2019.
  • Fans around the world are taking notice
    In 2024, Polish female artists have garnered over 2 billion streams in their local market, a near 600% increase since 2019. International streams have surged by more than 340% since 2019. While most streams of Polish female artists belong to pop, Polish female rappers like bambi are leading a genre trend with nearly 5,000% growth since 2019, alongside viral pop, dance, trap, and folk.

Spotify’s journey to inspire change is ongoing, and as the EQUAL program evolves, Spotify will continue to champion opportunities for women to be heard loud and clear.

For more details, visit the official EQUAL hub.

Watch the trailer for LAUFEY’S A NIGHT AT THE SYMPHONY: HOLLYWOOD BOWL

Eric Alper
-
0
Watch the trailer for LAUFEY’S A NIGHT AT THE SYMPHONY: HOLLYWOOD BOWL

Tickets are on sale now for Laufey’s A Night at the Symphony: Hollywood Bowl. This visually captivating concert film highlights Laufey’s breathtaking vocals with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, directed by Sam Wrench (known for Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour). Filmed at the iconic Hollywood Bowl—an enchanting venue that has hosted legends like Ella Fitzgerald—Laufey shares a behind-the-scenes view of this monumental night, set against a stunning starlit backdrop. As Variety puts it, “Laufey feels like she was born to play the Hollywood Bowl.”

GRAMMY-winning artist Laufey with the acclaimed Los Angeles Philharmonic. Directed by Sam Wrench and produced by VEEPS Studios, with Max Gredinger, Bianca Bhagat, Devin Dehaven, Kyle Heller, Michael Schneider, and Jessica Roulston, and presented in theaters by Trafalgar Releasing.

Beginning Dec. 6, this musical journey hits select cinemas and IMAX theaters for a limited time. For more details and ticket information for IMAX and standard cinemas, visit the event website.

Catch Laufey’s A Night at the Symphony: Hollywood Bowl at cinemas worldwide. Visit www.anightatthesymphony.com for a full list of participating theaters and to purchase tickets.

Laufey (pronounced lāy-vāy) is a 25-year-old Icelandic-Chinese composer, singer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist with a passion for making jazz and classical music resonate with today’s generation. Her music blends inspiration from jazz icons like Ella Fitzgerald and classical influences, paired with a fresh 21st-century perspective.

Born and raised between Reykjavík and Washington, D.C., with annual trips to Beijing, Laufey developed her musical talents early, mastering both cello and piano. A Berklee College of Music alum, she captured audiences in 2020 with her debut single Street by Street, which quickly amassed a global fanbase. Her 2022 debut album, Everything I Know About Love, hit #1 on Billboard’s Alternative New Artist Album chart, and her 2023 album, Bewitched, earned a GRAMMY® for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album, debuting #2 globally on Spotify and setting records for the largest jazz debut in Spotify history.

With sold-out shows at iconic venues like the Hollywood Bowl, Radio City Music Hall, Royal Albert Hall, and the Sydney Opera House, Laufey has captivated audiences worldwide. Celebrated by The New York Times as a “Gen Z It Girl,” she’s now the most-followed artist from Iceland, boasting over 3 billion streams and further establishing her as a rising star.

NFL and UnitedMasters Continue Partnership to Deliver Explosive Soundtrack to the Gridiron

Eric Alper
-
0
NFL and UnitedMasters Continue Partnership to Deliver Explosive Soundtrack to the Gridiron

Today, UnitedMasters, the industry’s premium music distribution platform for independent artists, announced the extension of its existing agreement with the National Football League (“NFL”) through the end of the 2027 season. The agreement, which follows an original three-year deal that began in 2023, will expand UnitedMasters’ existing track delivery – allowing the NFL to continue providing music to its fans via UnitedMasters’ fully cleared sync library.

“Partnering with the NFL gives UnitedMasters artists a platform to showcase their talents and connect with millions of fans across the globe,” says Steve Stoute, Founder and CEO of UnitedMasters. “We’re fusing the raw energy of independent music with the power of football, creating an experience that’s unmatched. This isn’t just about providing a soundtrack; we’re building a community where independent artists and football fans come together.”

The expanded agreement delivers significant benefits for fans, artists, and the NFL:

  • Non-Stop Music: The NFL will tap into UnitedMasters’ massive library of fully-cleared tracks, ensuring a constant flow of fresh sounds for fans everywhere. This means more than just game day excitement; UnitedMasters’ music will be integrated across NFL programming, creating a dynamic and engaging experience year-round.
  • Empowering Artists: UnitedMasters’ unique model allows artists to own their masters, giving them more control and a bigger piece of the pie. This partnership provides a global stage for emerging independent artists, offering them unparalleled exposure and opportunities to connect with millions of fans.
  • Club-Level Integration: NFL Member Clubs will have the opportunity to explore additional licensing packages, allowing them tailored access to a diverse catalog of music that resonates with their fanbase.  This empowers clubs to create hyper-local experiences, deepening their connection with fans and driving engagement across platforms.

“The NFL understands the power of music to connect with fans on a deeper level,” adds Stoute. “Further, we are helping the league to streamline legal compliance, while giving them access to an emerging set of artists coming out of independent ecosystems.”

“Over the past few years UnitedMasters has provided the NFL access to a diverse and dynamic music library with the platform flexibility crucial in today’s media landscape,” said Seth Dudowsky, head of music at the NFL. “We know that sports and music are both such powerful cultural forces, and we’re excited to continue working with UnitedMasters to create impactful content experiences for years to come.”

UnitedMasters has already launched the careers of internet sensations like BigXThaPlug, Anycia, Brent Faiyez and Tobe Nwigwe. Rising stars like Christian Crosby are already making waves on the NFL scene:

“As a lifelong NFL fan, having my music featured by the league was a surreal experience,” says Crosby. “It’s an incredible platform to reach millions of fans and showcase the power of independent music.”

Beyond the NFL, UnitedMasters creates thousands of sync opportunities for the artists on their platform, securing placements and partnerships across major brands and media companies like Diageo, Bose, Walmart, ESPN, Coca-Cola, IKEA, Dove, and many more. UnitedMasters helps brands and media companies navigate the complexities of staying culturally relevant while also being legally compliant.

Rare Extended Version of McDonald’s “Mac Tonight” Theme Resurfaces in Vintage 80s Footage

Eric Alper
-
0
Rare Extended Version of McDonald’s “Mac Tonight” Theme Resurfaces in Vintage 80s Footage

It’s always a thrill when lost treasures from the past resurface, especially when they bring a dash of nostalgia and a surprise. An extended 60-second version of the classic “Mac Tonight” theme song—yes, that unforgettable jingle from McDonald’s 1980s ads—was recently unearthed in footage from the opening of a McDonald’s restaurant in Boca Raton, Florida. This hidden gem begins at 06:09 in the video and delivers a longer take on the jingle than fans have been able to hear for decades. While the original jingle has circulated online, this extended cut was thought to be lost forever. It’s not just a blast from the past—it’s a full-on time machine back to the golden age of McDonald’s advertising.

Flashback to 1986 With The Amarillo College Doc Uncovering The Heart Of Texas Punk

Eric Alper
-
0
Flashback to 1986 With The Amarillo College Doc Uncovering The Heart Of Texas Punk

If you think punk rock was just for the big city scenes, think again. Amarillo College’s 1986 documentary brings a slice of Texas punk culture right to your screen. Shot in the heart of Amarillo and originally aired on the college’s own TV station, this documentary gives us a gritty, raw look at what life was like for young punks at The Web, a downtown hotspot where mohawks, leather jackets, and defiant attitudes ruled the scene.

RHINO HIGH FIDELITY Premium Vinyl Series Traces Punk Rock’s Roots With Reissues Of The Stooges’ Self-Titled Debut and The Ramones’ Road To Ruin

Eric Alper
-
0

Rhino High Fidelity (Rhino Hi-Fi) continues its series of acclaimed limited-edition, high-end vinyl reissues by going punk rock! New Rhino Hi-Fi versions of The Stooges’ self-titled debut LP The Stooges and The Ramones’ seminal fourth full-length album Road To Ruin will be available on November 1, 2024, exclusively at Rhino.com and internationally at select WMG stores. Each release will be limited to 5,000 individually numbered copies priced at $39.98. Pre-order HERE.

The Stooges unleashed their groundbreaking debut on August 5, 1969, and they unassumingly ignited a revolution. Led by inimitable frontman Iggy Pop, it spawned classics such as “I Wanna Be Your Dog” and “1969.” The latter notably graced Rolling Stone’s “100 Greatest Guitar Songs,” while the record also claimed a spot on Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Albums of All Time.” Retrospectively, Pitchfork hailed it as “raw and immediate and dripping with an aggression that’s rarely been rivaled.” It also reached #106 on the Billboard 200.

As part of its liner notes, this High Fidelity release features an insightful Q&A with legendary photographer Glen Craig conducted by A&R producer Jason Jones. During this conversation, Craig recounts chronicling the recording sessions for The Stooges, snapping photos as the musicians performed live in the studio. He recalls, “I shot a picture of Iggy with his shirt off, practically in his underwear, dancing around on the amps and stuff. That’s pretty much the way things went.”

Known as the “Godfather of Punk,” Iggy has achieved induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame® alongside his bandmates in The Stooges. He also garnered a GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award.

The Ramones first unveiled Road To Ruin on September 22, 1978. It notably marked the debut of Marky Ramone behind the drumkit. Collaborating with producers T. Erdelyi and Ed Stasium, the band cut the album at Mediasound Studio A—which just so happened to be a former Episcopalian Church in Midtown Manhattan. Grinding throughout the early summer of ‘78, they churned out signature anthems such as “I Wanna Be Sedated” for the record. The latter has impressively generated nearly half a billion streams. Plus, this staple even garnered a platinum certification from the RIAA in 2018—four decades since its initial release.

Stasium penned new liner notes for the High Fidelity Release of Road To Ruin. He recalls the sessions in vivid detail, discussing the various recording techniques at a fascinating and impressively granular level. He also illuminates the careful meticulousness at the heart of The Ramones’ sound, setting the scene, “We always recorded the band live in the studio.” The producer goes on to add, “The final result was a very musically diverse album, ranging from classic Ramones (“I Wanted Everything”) to a style that some fans called pop country (“Don’t Come Close”), which, believe it or not, has 14 tracks of overdubbed guitars on it!”

The Ramones earned induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and a GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award.

 

Road To Ruin
Tracklisting
Side One
I Just Want To Have Something To Do
I Wanted Everything
Don’t Come Close
I Don’t Want You
Needles & Pins
I’m Against It

Side Two
I Wanna Be Sedated
Go Metal
Questioningly
She’s The One
Bad Brain
It’s a Long Way Back

The Stooges
Tracklisting
Side One
1969
I Wanna Be Your Dog
We Will Fall

Side Two
No Fun
Real Cool Time
Ann
Not Right
Little Doll
1...1,0411,0421,043...3,013Page 1,042 of 3,013

Follow us on Instagram @thatericalper

That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

Popular posts

Popular category

© Copyright - That Eric Alper