Page 589 – That Eric Alper

10 Tips for Choosing the Right Band Members

Eric Alper

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Jun 18, 2025

10 Tips for Choosing the Right Band Members

Choosing the right band members is a crucial step in forming a band that can take on the world. Whether you’re a new artist just starting out or looking to expand your lineup, the people you choose to work with will play a massive role in shaping your band’s sound, success, and overall vibe. So, what do you need to consider when picking out your bandmates? Here are 10 tips that will help guide you through the process and ensure you find the perfect match.

1. Chemistry Over Skill
While skills are important, chemistry is what keeps the music flowing. A band is like a marriage—if the members can’t get along or work well together, it’s never going to click. Choose people you vibe with and can communicate openly with. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

2. Shared Musical Vision
All members should share a similar musical vision, whether that means they love rock, pop, or something in-between. Misaligned goals will lead to tension and frustration. It’s essential that everyone is on the same page musically to make sure the sound you’re aiming for stays consistent.

3. Balance Personalities
A good mix of personalities can make your band dynamic and interesting. While one person might be the quiet genius, another might be the lively, outgoing personality who connects with fans. Think about how each person’s vibe contributes to the energy of the group as a whole.

4. Consider Long-Term Goals
When choosing band members, make sure you’re considering long-term commitment. You need people who are not just willing to put in the work now but who are also aligned with the band’s future ambitions. Discuss the goals and make sure they match across the group.

5. Be Honest About Time Commitment
Music can be a demanding pursuit, so be upfront about the time commitment needed. If someone has other commitments, such as school or a day job, be realistic about how much they can dedicate to the band. This conversation early on saves a lot of stress down the road.

6. Get to Know Their Work Ethic
Skills aside, how hard does someone work when it comes to rehearsal, writing, and performing? A band is a team effort, and each member needs to contribute equally. You want to work with people who are as dedicated to the music as you are.

7. Musical Versatility
Ideally, you want band members who can bring multiple strengths to the table. Maybe one person is amazing at playing lead guitar, but can also step in as a backup vocalist when needed. The more versatile your members, the more flexibility your band will have.

8. Know Their Gear and Setup
A band is about what you bring to the table musically and technically. You want to make sure your band members have the right gear to pull off the sound you’re envisioning. Good equipment helps keep things running smoothly on stage and in the studio.

9. Look for Team Players
When it comes to creating music, ego can kill creativity. Look for members who are eager to collaborate and make the collective sound shine, not just their individual parts. Team players make the best collaborators and help create a cohesive and supportive environment.

10. Audition, Don’t Assume
Don’t just pick a band member based on their previous work or reputation. Auditioning them gives you a better understanding of how they’ll fit with your group’s dynamics, both musically and personally. Sometimes the best fit comes from unexpected places, so trust your instincts.

Choosing the right band members is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your music career. Remember, it’s not just about finding great players—it’s about finding the right people who can work together and make something truly special. Keep these tips in mind and take your time. The perfect band lineup will take your music—and your journey—to the next level.

10 Classic Rock Songs You’ve Definitely Heard in a Movie

Eric Alper

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Jun 18, 2025

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10 Classic Rock Songs You’ve Definitely Heard in a Movie

Movies and music have always had a special connection, but when classic rock hits are thrown into the mix, magic happens. Whether it’s an iconic car chase, a tender moment, or a climactic scene, classic rock has a way of amplifying emotions and creating unforgettable cinematic moments. Let’s dive into 10 classic rock songs that you’ve definitely heard in a movie—because nothing elevates a film quite like the sound of timeless rock anthems.

“Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen
Perhaps one of the most well-known classic rock anthems to make its way into film, Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” became an iconic moment in Wayne’s World (1992). The scene of Wayne and his crew headbanging to this epic track has cemented it as a cultural touchstone.

“Layla” by Derek and the Dominos
The piano coda plays during a montage of mob hits in Goodfellas (1990), creating a chilling contrast between beauty and brutality. It’s one of Martin Scorsese’s most iconic music cues.

“Back in Black” by AC/DC
AC/DC’s “Back in Black” is a high-energy rock anthem that made its mark in Iron Man (2008), playing during the introduction of Tony Stark’s iconic armored persona. The song’s electrifying riff and bold attitude set the stage for a superhero transformation.

“Dream On” by Aerosmith
Aerosmith’s power ballad made its way into Armageddon (1998), capturing the emotional depth of the film’s heartfelt moments. With its soaring vocals and emotional weight, “Dream On” is a perfect soundtrack for an unforgettable disaster movie.

“You Make Loving Fun” by Fleetwood Mac
Fleetwood Mac’s “You Make Loving Fun” plays a significant part in The 40-Year-Old Virgin (2005), adding a perfect touch of lightheartedness and romance to the scene, and showing that even the best classic rock songs can fit into a modern comedy.

“Gimme Shelter” by The Rolling Stones
This classic track by The Rolling Stones plays in Goodfellas (1990) during a brutal, climactic scene. Its gritty, ominous sound enhances the intensity of the film, making it an unforgettable addition to one of Scorsese’s best.

“Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf
Used in Easy Rider (1969), “Born to Be Wild” became the anthem of the free-spirited, rebellious counterculture of the 1960s. It’s the perfect tune for those long motorcycle rides through the open American roads, encapsulating the essence of the film.

“Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird” makes a notable appearance in Forrest Gump (1994), where it underscores a moment of change and freedom. The song’s extended guitar solo is synonymous with freedom and rebellion, a perfect fit for the film’s reflective tone.

“American Woman” by The Guess Who
The Guess Who’s “American Woman” was featured in Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me (1999), bringing the song’s 1970s rock vibes to a hilarious and stylish comedic setting. It’s the perfect anthem to capture the groovy yet over-the-top nature of the film.

“I Can’t Tell You Why” by Eagles
In The Big Lebowski (1998), the Eagles’ smooth track “I Can’t Tell You Why” provides the perfect backdrop to a scene that’s both calm and surreal. Its laid-back yet introspective mood fits effortlessly into the quirky world created by the Coen brothers.

Most People Have the Wrong Internet Plan – Do You?

Music

Eric Alper

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Jun 18, 2025

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By Mitch Rice

When it comes to home internet, most people think faster is always better, so they pay more for the biggest plan they can get. On the other end of the spectrum, some people try to save money by settling for the cheapest plan they can find. Neither approach works. You’re either going to pay too much for speeds you don’t need, or you’ll get stuck with internet that drops out and buffers all the time.

If you’re tired of paying too much, or you’re done with unreliable internet, here’s a breakdown of how to avoid common mistakes and get the right internet plan.

Don’t automatically buy the fastest plan

Internet plans are faster than ever these days, reaching Gigabit speeds, but sometimes the fastest plan offered far exceeds a person’s needs. Why pay for what you don’t need? Instead of signing up for the biggest plan you can find, start by assessing your needs. Many people don’t need more than 500 Mbps, and most families can function with speeds between 100 and 300 Mbps, depending on how they use the internet.

If you don’t need the biggest plan your ISP has to offer, get the plan that will support your needs. A reliable ISP will offer competitive, affordable rates for their plans. For example, a fast plan from Optimum Internet can cost as little as $40 per month, and you get 24/7 support with no annual contracts.

If you’re not working from home, streaming 4k on 2+ televisions, and gaming all at once, you don’t need a Gigabit connection. With that said, if you do have gamers and streamers in your household, and there are always multiple devices connected to your internet, it’s worth considering Gigabit speeds.

Don’t take “high-speed” at face value

High-speed doesn’t mean “fastest internet.” It’s a relative term that has no set definition. Even DSL providers describe their internet speeds as “high-speed,” and DSL is just one step above dial-up. Check this speed guide to determine what you actually need in your household. Then choose your internet plan based on your needs.

Consider upload speeds

Most people focus on download speeds, but upload speeds matter, too. If you ever upload videos, back up your files in a cloud file storage account, or use video calls, you need a good upload speed for a smooth experience. If your upload speed is slow, your Zoom calls can freeze and large file uploads can take forever. You also need a decent upload speed if you have a smart home system, like security cameras with cloud storage.

Before selecting an internet plan, check the upload speed. Most companies don’t advertise them, so you may need to read the fine print or check out the FAQ section on their web page to find the information.

Don’t look for the cheapest plan out there

It’s good to save money, but buying the cheapest internet plan isn’t necessarily going to help. Even if you find an internet provider offering the same speeds for less, there’s a chance it won’t be as reliable. For example, 100 Mbps will vary based on the type of connection. Satellite, traditional cable, and fiber optic connections will all provide variable reliability at the same speed.

Fiber optic will always be the most reliable, but you’ll need to factor in neighborhood use and weather conditions to know if satellite or traditional cable is better.

At the end of the day, if you buy a slow internet plan to save money, you’ll end up upgrading anyway, so don’t start with the barebones plan if you know you’ll need more speed.

Don’t ignore data caps

Some internet providers offer high speeds, but place a limit on how much data you can use at that speed each month. Once you hit the limit, they throttle your speed or charge you extra fees. It’s crucial to read the fine print and ask about this potential before buying a plan. If you stream, work from home, or game, you’re probably going to hit a data cap faster than you realize.

Check long-term pricing for all promotions

Internet service providers love to provide amazing discounts to get new customers, but those discounts are short-lived. Often, the price drastically increases once the promo period is over. Always check what the regular rates will be first.

The right plan means less stress

Choosing the wrong internet plan will only frustrate you and waste your money. But it doesn’t have to be that way. When you choose your plan based on your needs, you won’t have to worry about overpaying or getting stuck with a limited plan.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

Beyond Storage – Exploring Guarda’s Features as the Best Crypto Wallet

Music

Eric Alper

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Jun 18, 2025

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By Mitch Rice

In an ecosystem crowded with simple vaults and cumbersome interfaces, finding the Best crypto wallet can feel overwhelming. Guarda Wallet breaks the mold by combining storage, exchange, and cross-chain capabilities in one polished package. It’s more than a Cryptocurrency wallet—it’s a command center for your digital finances.

A highlight is Guarda’s built-in exchange. Users swap assets directly within the wallet, bypassing external exchanges and complex order books. Competitive rates, minimal fees, and transactions that settle in under five minutes make it a standout feature. This seamless experience positions Guarda as the Best bitcoin wallet for active traders who demand speed and reliability.

Guarda’s cross-chain swap and bridging integrations unlock the full potential of Web3. By leveraging Bridgers API, the wallet facilitates fluid transfers between networks like Ethereum and Binance Smart Chain. These innovations eliminate tedious bridges and reduce transaction steps, ensuring you stay ahead in the evolving DeFi landscape. Such forward-thinking design distinguishes Guarda in the race for the Best crypto wallet.

Managing a diverse portfolio is effortless. Real-time tracking, price charts, and detailed transaction histories give you clear insights into performance. Add and monitor dozens of tokens within a single account, without juggling multiple apps or browser extensions. This cohesive experience is exactly what defines the Best Cryptocurrency wallet for modern investors.

From gas-free USDT transfers on Tron to upcoming mobile bridging support, Guarda continues to expand its feature set while maintaining a user-first ethos. Whether you’re sending Bitcoin, staking Ethereum tokens, or exploring DeFi, Guarda’s comprehensive toolkit makes it the ultimate choice. Download Guarda Wallet today and discover why it leads as the Best bitcoin wallet, the Best crypto wallet, and the overall Best wallet for all your blockchain adventures.

To further enhance adoption, Guarda offers fiat on-ramp services in multiple regions, letting users buy crypto with credit cards or bank transfers in minutes. Coupled with cross-platform synchronization—desktop, mobile, and web—the wallet ensures you never miss a market opportunity. This blend of accessibility, innovation, and security is what cements Guarda’s reputation as the Best crypto wallet on the market today.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

Stevie Nicks Announces 2025 ‘Live In Concert’ Tour Across U.S.

Music

Eric Alper

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Jun 17, 2025

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Stevie Nicks Announces 2025 ‘Live In Concert’ Tour Across U.S.

Fleetwood Mac icon Stevie Nicks announces her 2025 live performances with eight shows across the U.S.. Produced by Live Nation, Live In Concert takes Stevie Nicks to Brooklyn, NY; Hollywood, FL; Detroit, MI and more from August to October of this year.

The new shows will conclude with a performance at the newly transformed PeoplesBank Arena in Hartford, CT on October 25. Nicks will continue to enchant audiences with her unmistakable voice, poetic lyrics, and transcendent live performances.

TICKETS: Presale for the 2025 dates will begin on Wednesday, June 18 at 10am local and general on sale begins on Friday, June 20 at 10am local on livenation.com.

STEVIE NICKS 2025 TOUR DATES:
^NEW SHOWS: Tickets on Sale Friday, June 20
August 8 – Brooklyn, NY – Barclays Center^
August 12 – Boston, MA – TD Garden
August 15 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
August 19 – Saint Paul, MN – Xcel Energy Center
August 23 – Cincinnati, OH – Heritage Bank Center
August 27 – Columbia, SC – Colonial Life Arena
August 30 – Tampa, FL – Amalie Arena
September 3 – Hollywood, FL – Hard Rock Live
September 7 – Detroit MI – Little Caesars Arena
October 1 – Portland OR – MODA Center
October 4 – Sacramento, CA – Golden 1 Center
October 7 – Phoenix, AZ – PHX Arena
October 11 – Las Vegas, NV – T-Mobile Arena
October 15 – Oklahoma City, OK – Paycom Center
October 18 – Atlantic City, NJ – Boardwalk Hall
October 21 – Charlotte, NC – Spectrum Center
October 25 – Hartford, CT – PeoplesBank Arena

The B-52s and Devo Unite for Farewell “Cosmic De-Evolution Tour”

Music

Eric Alper

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Jun 17, 2025

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The B-52s and Devo Unite for Farewell “Cosmic De-Evolution Tour”

Two of rock’s most influential and distinctive forces, The B-52s and Devo, will unite for the 2025 “Cosmic De-Evolution Tour”: a co-headlining 11-date run serving as both bands’ continuing concert farewells. Lene Lovich will open the celebratory trek, which currently launches September 24th in Toronto and wraps November 2nd in Houston.

“In 2022, I swore I’d never get on a tour bus again” said Fred Schneider “but we were careful to say to our fans that we would still perform in special situations that don’t require all of the awful tour travel. Our Vegas residency is going great, and when we were offered the chance to do a small run of shows with Devo, we all said this is an extraordinary opportunity we couldn’t say no to.”

Added Kate Pierson, “When we first came from Athens to New York City to perform, punk was in full force…and New Wave was right on its tail! We loved all the New Wave groups, including Patti Smith, Talking Heads, Blondie and the Ramones. We also really dug the far-out weirdness of Devo, which seemed very in tuned to our sensibilities. We remember one of our first shows– amazed that David Bowie, Brian Eno, Frank Zappa, Allen Ginsberg, Talking Heads and Blondie all came to see us! When we opened the Mudd Club, we partied with Devo and really hit it off on the dance floor. Later, Brian Eno went onto to produce Devo’s incredible first album…and now we will align again ! So put on your wig hats and Devo bonnets and get ready to party! This is going to be wild.”

Said Cindy Wilson, “When both of our bands performed at the recent SNL 50 concert at Radio City, we started talking and agreed we had to do these shows” says Cindy Wilson. “Believe or not, we’ve never done more than a festival or two together in all this time. This will be amazing and I can’t wait for The B-52s to share these stages with Devo!”

Said Mark Mothersbaugh, “The B-52s had one of the best sounds of any of the bands out there in the late 70’s early 80’s – Rock Lobster is one of my favorite songs – DEVO used to sing it to Booji Boy after DEVO shows. It was either fate or luck or the SNL anniversary that brought us all together to create this amazing chance to go out on tour. All I can say is Cosmic Devolution is REAL!”

Added Gerry Casale, “Devo and The B-52s on tour together! That it took almost 50 years to happen is rather mind-blowing. But better late than never. We each did something right in different ways that withstood the test of time. Now we’re here to prove we can still “bring it” as they say!”

TICKETS: Tickets will be available starting with CITI and AMEX presales (details below) beginning Monday, June 16. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general onsale beginning Friday June 20 at 10 AM local time at LiveNation.com.

CITI PRESALE: Citi is the official card of the Cosmic De-Evolution Tour*. Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets beginning Monday, June 16 at 12 PM local time until Thursday, June 19 at 10 PM local time through the Citi Entertainment Program. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com. *LA date is not available within this presale.

AMEX PRESALE: American Express Card Members can purchase tickets for the Los Angeles show before the general public beginning Monday, June 16 at 10 AM local time through Thursday, June 19 at 10 PM local time.

The B-52s- led by original co-founders Fred Schneider (vocals), Kate Pierson (vocals, keyboards), and Cindy Wilson (vocals)-kicked off their extended goodbye run back in 2022. Since that time, they have electrified select venues and large music festivals across the U.S. and even established a Las Vegas residency at The Venetian Theatre, powered by their colorful, danceable iconic classics that have made a seismic impact on New Wave and music history. As they prepare for a 2025 farewell tour, a high-profile documentary and their first official book, The B-52s undoubtedly stand poised to inspire and influence future generations.

This curtain-call timing overlaps with Devo, who are also fronted by three of their original members: Mark Mothersbaugh (vocals, keyboards, guitar), Gerald Casale (vocals, bass, keyboards), and Bob Mothersbaugh (guitar, vocals). In 2023, the fellow New Wave icons (“Whip It,” “Uncontrollable Urge”) kicked off their own farewell tour, 50 Years of De-Evolution, paired with a compilation album of the same name. That jaunt has since been extended and continues through the summer and fall of 2025.

COSMIC DE-EVOLUTION TOUR DATES 2025:
9/24 – Toronto, ONT @ Budweiser Stage
9/25 – Clarkston, MI @ Pine Knob Music Theatre
10/2 – Mansfield, MA @ Xfinity Center
10/4 – Holmdel, NJ @ PNC Bank Arts Center
10/5 – Wantagh, NY @ Northwell at Jones Beach Theater
10/16 – Mountain View, CA @ Shoreline Amphitheatre
10/18 – Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl
10/24 – Charlotte, NC @ PNC Music Pavilion
10/25 – Alpharetta, GA @ Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
11/1 – Austin, TX @ Germania Insurance Amphitheater
11/2 – Houston, TX @ The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Sponsored by Huntsman

Biohazard Unleashes “Forsaken,” First New Music in Over a Decade

Music

Eric Alper

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Jun 17, 2025

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Biohazard Unleashes “Forsaken,” First New Music in Over a Decade

Biohazard shares their first new music in over a decade with the release of a brand new single entitled “Forsaken.” A staple of their recent Euro/UK headlining tour and a certified mosh pit favorite, the track offers a first taste of their forthcoming album.

Honoring their old-school roots while pushing forward, “Forsaken” arrives with an energetic live video directed by Billy Graziadei, filmed on tour as the band debuted the song to packed crowds across Europe.

Bassist/vocalist Evan Seinfeld on the new single: “We shot this video in Amsterdam, at Melkweg, an iconic venue where BIOHAZARD first made our bones in Europe back in the late ’80s and ’90s. It’s really organic, and a little sample of the energy of our first new album in 15 years, performed in a live setting. Make sure you’re strapped in and prepare for some real mayhem when our new album drops!”

Biohazard, renowned for their aggressive style and socially conscious lyrics, has been a seminal force in the hardcore and metal scenes since their formation in the late 1980s. Their unique blend of hardcore punk, heavy metal, and hip-hop elements has garnered them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. Biohazard’s signing with BLKIIBLK marks a new chapter in their illustrious career, promising exciting new music and projects.

“What started as three reunion shows of the OG lineup turned into three unstoppable years of kicking ass on stage night after night! Now we’re back with a new record that hits with all the classic Biohazard energy, louder and harder than ever,” comments guitarist/vocalist Billy Graziadei.

Sloan Announces New Album ‘Based on the Best Seller’ Out September 26, Shares Catchy New Single “Live Forever”

Music

Eric Alper

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Jun 17, 2025

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Sloan Announces New Album ‘Based on the Best Seller’ Out September 26, Shares Catchy New Single “Live Forever”

Legendary JUNO Award-winning Toronto-based rock quartet Sloan return with their fourteenth studio album, Based on the Best Seller, set for September 26 release on Yep Roc Records.

Staying true to Sloan’s longstanding ethos of artistic integrity, enduring friendship, and creative equality, the album showcases their trademark ability to weave together a variety of styles and voices into one cohesive, unmistakably Sloan sound.

Today, the band unveiled, “Live Forever,” the album’s melodic first single available on all streaming platforms. Written by Sloan’s Jay Ferguson, Chris Murphy, Patrick Pentland and Andrew Scott, and co-produced by the band along with Ryan Haslett, “Live Forever” is a harmony-rich, irresistibly catchy power pop track. The song blends existential humor with a dose of sharp pop commentary, exploring the unexpected downsides of immortality and the enduring pull of nostalgia.

“If given the chance to live forever, would we even want to? Careful what you wish for. Would you want to feel 80 for hundreds of years? I guess that’s the kind of hard-hitting question this song tackles. It also predicts that we will all have ’90s nostalgia – once we’re 100 years old,” said Chris Murphy of Sloan.

Now more than 30 years into their career, Sloan has grown from a promising Halifax band into a revered indie rock institution. Celebrated for their unwavering lineup and democratic approach, with all four members contributing as singers, songwriters, and multi-instrumentalists, the band has built a remarkably diverse catalogue. From power pop and punk-infused bursts to chamber rock and sprawling epics, Sloan continues to craft music that resonates deeply with listeners decades on.

Regarded as one of Canada’s most enduring and influential rock bands, Sloan shows no signs of slowing down. This summer, they hit the road to tour across Canada, with performances in Ontario, Alberta, Nova Scotia and British Columbia, and more dates to be announced soon in support of their new music.

Sloan Tour Dates:
June 21 – Oshawa, ON – Bond St. Event Centre
July 9 – Calgary, AB – Wildhorse Saloon
July 12 – Ottawa, ON – HOPE Volleyball SummerFest
July 16 – Peterborough, ON – Peterborough Musicfest
July 19 – Gravenhurst, ON – Tall Pines Music & Arts Festival
July 25 – Hubbards, NS – The Shore Club
July 26 – Canso, NS – Stan Rogers Folk Festival
August 3 – Sydney River, NS – Red Farm Field Trip
August 9 – Penticton, BC – Penticton Peachfest
August 28 – Burlington, ON Royal Botanical Gardens
September 20 – Cambridge, ON – Fest2Fall

Bert McCracken Announces Memoir ‘In Love and Death: The Lost Notebook,’ Featuring Long-Lost Lyrics and Writings

Music

Eric Alper

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Jun 17, 2025

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Bert McCracken Announces Memoir ‘In Love and Death: The Lost Notebook,’ Featuring Long-Lost Lyrics and Writings

he Used frontman Bert McCracken is proud to announce the upcoming release of his book, In Love and Death: The Lost Notebook, which has an estimated publishing date of November 4th.

Inside is home to his intimate, long-lost artifact – composed of handwritten lyrics, poems, sketches, and personal reflections from nearly twenty years ago – will be available in a signed, limited edition beginning late Fall 2025, along with an unsigned non-slipcase standard edition in stores worldwide. Signed preorders are available now exclusively at rarebirdlit.com.

Originally thought to be lost forever, McCracken’s personal notebook – used during the creation of The Used’s seminal 2004 album In Love and Death – resurfaced unexpectedly online and was safely returned to him after two decades. Now, for the first time, McCracken opens the pages to share the raw thoughts and formative writings that would evolve into some of the band’s most beloved songs.

“This notebook is a time capsule,” McCracken says. “It’s a snapshot of who I was, what I went through, and how those emotions turned into the music we made. Getting it back brought a rush of memories-pain, joy, chaos, and everything in between.”

More than a behind-the-scenes look at one of emo’s most influential records, In Love and Death: The Lost Notebook is an artifact of emotional honesty and artistic fearlessness. Alongside raw, unfiltered entries from McCracken’s early twenties are evocative doodles, scraps of lyrics, and deeply personal reflections on grief, addiction, creativity and resilience.

“I never thought I’d publish a book-unless it was weird, postmodern fiction,” McCracken reflects. “But when I found this notebook again, I knew I had to share it. I was fearless then. And there’s magic in what survived.”

Shooter Jennings Unveils Lost Waylon Jennings Album ‘Songbird,’ First of Three Never-Before-Heard Collections

Music

Eric Alper

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Jun 17, 2025

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Shooter Jennings Unveils Lost Waylon Jennings Album ‘Songbird,’ First of Three Never-Before-Heard Collections

3x GRAMMY Award-winner Shooter Jennings has announced the release of Songbird, a completely new, previously unheard album by his legendary father, Waylon Jennings. The first of three previously unheard albums worth of material by the groundbreaking country music superstar, Songbird collects recordings produced between 1973 and 1984 in various studios by Jennings and his longtime drummer and co-producer Richie Albright, featuring members of his indelible backing band, The Waylors, including Albright and renowned pedal steel guitarist Ralph Mooney, along with such special guests as Tony Joe White, Jessi Colter, and more. Compiled and mixed by Shooter Jennings at Hollywood, CA’s hallowed Sunset Sound Studio 3, Songbird arrives via Son of Jessi/Thirty Tigers on Friday, October 3, 2025.

Songbird is heralded by the first single and title track, Jennings’ stunning version of Fleetwood Mac’s “Songbird,” available everywhere alongside an official visualizer/music video streaming now at YouTube. Both “Songbird” and the Songbird project were officially unveiled yesterday at a special Waylon Jennings Birthday Party/Father’s Day celebration hosted by Shooter Jennings at The Viper Room in West Hollywood, CA. The surviving members of the Waylors, Waylon Jennings’ backing band, were the house band for performances by Jaime Wyatt, Elizabeth Cook, Ashley Monroe, Charley Crockett, and Shooter Jennings, as they performed songs from Waylon Jennings’ illustrious catalogue.

The Songbird project began in the summer of 2024 as Shooter Jennings began sorting through hundreds of high-resolution multitrack transfers of his father’s personal studio recordings. Having just begun an exclusive residency at Hollywood’s historic Sunset Sound Studio 3 (redubbed by Jennings as “Snake Mountain”), the 3x GRAMMY Award-winning producer and artist set to work examining the tapes with the help of veteran engineer Nate Haessly. While his initial hope was to simply unearth some previously lost Waylon Jennings songs that he could share with the world, what he instead discovered was “an audio record of an incredibly profound artist and his legendary band through their peak period of creative expansion.”

“What became very apparent to me was that my dad was recording constantly with his band The Waylors between tours,” says Shooter Jennings. “Just having won the David-and-Goliath battle against RCA for creative control and artistic freedom, Waylon was awarded the ability to record his music on his terms in his own studios, with his touring band, and without label oversight and without any outside influence.

There was just so much inside, my mind was blown! These weren’t demos, these were songs that were cut with the intention of releasing, and as time went on, not all of them found places on the albums that Waylon and the Waylors were releasing at the time.”

Jennings soon realized there was more than enough gold in his father’s vast musical archive to create not just one, but three, brand new Waylon Jennings albums more than two decades after his untimely passing in 2002. Though the majority of the recordings were fully finished, he added a few final touches by bringing in a number of surviving members of The Waylors, including guitarist Gordon Payne, bassist Jerry Bridges, keyboardist Barny Robertson, and backing vocalist Carter Robertson, with contemporary country stars Elizabeth Cook and Ashley Monroe specially enlisted to help take “Songbird” to new heights. Jennings then mixed the original and newly recorded material “in a purely analog fashion” on Sunset Sound Studio 3’s custom 1976 DeMedio API mixing board.

“Songbird is the beginning of Waylon’s return to the modern world,” Shooter Jennings says. “This is the first of three gifts from me to you: the fans that have kept my father’s voice, songs and legacy alive all these years. The next few years are going to be full of some of the most exciting musical moments that the world never knew they were going to hear. I hope that these records bring the kind of joy to you that they have brought me.

“This project has given me an entirely new chapter in my relationship with my father and working on this music has brought a whole new understanding about how, when and why my dad made music. The hard work is there on the tapes and the passion and the soul within is as alive today as it was the day it was recorded.”