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Steven Vass’s ‘Let the Music Play’ Explores How R&B Synthesized a New Sound in the 1980s

Eric Alper
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Steven Vass’s ‘Let the Music Play’ Explores How R&B Synthesized a New Sound in the 1980s

In Let the Music Play: How R&B Fell In Love With 80s Synths (Paperback, March 5, 2024), author Steven Vass dives deep into a revolutionary moment in Black music history. This vibrant chronicle captures the era when R&B, funk, and disco collided with emerging synth technology to reshape sound, style, and production forever. From pioneering legends like Stevie Wonder and Herbie Hancock to breakout icons like Prince, Sade, and the producers who defined the decade, Vass unpacks how this genre-bending era helped build the foundation of modern pop and hip-hop.

Let the Music Play: How R&B Fell In Love With 80s Synths is the overlooked story of how R&B, disco and funk were transformed by the explosion of synths and other music tech in the era of ghetto blasters, shoulder pads and Ronald Reagan. It traces how pioneers like Stevie Wonder and Herbie Hancock inspired a new generation of black musicians and producers in the US and UK to reinvent music using a whole new set of rules.

From superstars like Prince and Sade to production geniuses like Kashif and Jam & Lewis, it looks at how sounds and genres kept adapting to each new innovation, including drum machines, samplers and digital studios. It tells the fascinating stories of the artists involved and how some of the best-loved records of the era were made – creating a blueprint for music today.

Jim Moginie’s Memoir ‘The Silver River’ Reflects on Family, Identity, and the Legacy of Midnight Oil

Eric Alper
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Jim Moginie’s Memoir ‘The Silver River’ Reflects on Family, Identity, and the Legacy of Midnight Oil

In The Silver River: A Memoir of Family – Lost, Made and Found, Jim Moginie—founding member of Midnight Oil—recounts a life shaped by both musical brotherhood and personal longing. As the band climbed from Australia’s punk fringes to international acclaim, Moginie quietly wrestled with the mystery of his own origin. This memoir traces parallel journeys: the rise of one of Australia’s most politically charged rock bands and a deeply personal search for belonging, identity, and the meaning of family.

For fifty years, songwriter, guitarist and keyboard player Jim Moginie was a driving force behind one of Australia’s most iconic rock bands, Midnight Oil. As they made their way through the nascent domestic punk scene and the uncharted musical territory of the Western Desert to the concert halls of Europe and America, the band members developed a feeling of ‘five against the world’. For Jim, this de facto family was a bulwark against a nagging sense that something was missing from his life: he’d long known that his biological mother had given him up for adoption as a baby. While Midnight Oil grappled with the challenges of chart success, their political activism and global tours, Jim’s quest to find his birth family increasingly led him in different directions, to the quiet suburbs of Canberra and the meandering rivers and verdant hills of rural Ireland – and emotional reunions with long-lost relatives.

Threaded with vivid recollections of childhood, behind-the-scenes stories of band life and fascinating insights into the creative processes that produced some of this country’s most beloved songs, The Silver River is at once a lyrical coming-of-age story, a heart-warming family chronicle and a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Australian music.

James Kaplan’s Book ‘3 Shades of Blue’ Reimagines The Genius of Miles, Coltrane, and Evans

Eric Alper
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James Kaplan’s Book ‘3 Shades of Blue’ Reimagines The Genius of Miles, Coltrane, and Evans

From the author of the definitive biography of Frank Sinatra, the story of three towering artists—Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Bill Evans—and how they came together to create the most iconic jazz album of all time, Kind of Blue

In 1959, America’s great indigenous art form, jazz, reached the height of its power and popularity. James Kaplan’s magnificent 3 Shades of Blue captures how that golden era came to be, and its pinnacle with the recording of Kind of Blue. It’s a book about music, and business, and race, and heroin, and the cities that gave jazz its home, and the Black geniuses behind its rise. It’s an astonishing meditation on creativity and the strange environments where it can flourish most. It’s a book about the great forebears and founders of a lost era, and the disrupters who would take the music down truly new paths. And it’s about why the world of jazz most people know is a museum to this never-replicated period.

But above all, 3 Shades of Blue is a book about three very different men—the greatness and varied fortunes of Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Bill Evans. The tapestry of their lives is, in Kaplan’s hands, a national odyssey with no direction home. It is also a masterpiece, a book about jazz that is as big as America.

30 Songs That Take On The Music Industry

Eric Alper
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30 Songs That Take On The Music Industry

Artists have always had a love-hate relationship with the music business. Some celebrate it, others expose its darker corners. Here are 30 songs that pull back the curtain on managers, labels, and the industry machine.

“A&R” – Ted Leo and the Pharmacists
The inner workings of label decision-making get a sharp, sarcastic dissection in this indie anthem.

“Ain’t No Fun (Waiting Round to Be a Millionaire)” – AC/DC
Few bands capture the grind of chasing fame like AC/DC, turning financial frustration into a bluesy roar.

“American Music” – Violent Femmes
With tongue firmly in cheek, Violent Femmes question the manufactured identity of what gets labeled as “American” sound.

“Artists Only” – Talking Heads
David Byrne puts the ego-driven side of artistry on blast, mocking the industry’s obsession with image over substance.

“Bitter Sweet Symphony” – The Verve
A song forever tied to a legal battle over royalties, proving that even a massive hit can become a cautionary tale.

“Cigarettes & Alcohol” – Oasis
Swaggering through excess, Oasis lays bare the vices that come with rock stardom—and the industry’s role in it all.

“Contract on the World Love Jam” – Public Enemy
Before the beats drop, this spoken-word intro sets a fierce tone, calling out the exploitation of Black artists in the music world.

“Death on Two Legs” – Queen
Freddie Mercury’s venomous takedown of Queen’s former manager, Norman Sheffield, who allegedly mishandled their finances.

“Deeper and Deeper” – Madonna
Between pulsating beats, Madonna slips in a nod to the pressures of fame and the industry’s relentless demands on pop icons.

“E.M.I.” – Sex Pistols
Spitting in the face of the label that dropped them, the Pistols prove that rebellion sells just as well as conformity.

“Everything Is Borrowed” – The Streets
Mike Skinner reflects on the fleeting nature of success, hinting at the industry’s tendency to chew up and spit out artists.

“Free Man in Paris” – Joni Mitchell
Joni paints a wistful portrait of label executive David Geffen longing for freedom from the business he built.

“Have a Cigar” – Pink Floyd
Few lines cut through music industry nonsense quite like: “By the way, which one’s Pink?”

“Hey, Mr. Manager” – Badfinger
Frustration turns into melody as Badfinger vents about their financial downfall thanks to a shady manager.

“I Wanna Be Rich” – Calloway
Drenched in flashy synths, this track playfully contrasts the dream of stardom with the brutal reality of music contracts.

“Industry” – Jon McLaughlin
Profit over passion—the sad truth of the business, spelled out in haunting piano-driven reflections.

“It’s Only Rock ’n’ Roll (But I Like It)” – The Rolling Stones
A tongue-in-cheek reminder that trends come and go, but having fun with music never goes out of style.

“Joe’s Garage” – Frank Zappa
A dystopian nightmare unfolds in Zappa’s cautionary tale, envisioning a world where music itself is illegal.

“Money Changes Everything” – Cyndi Lauper
Once success enters the equation, relationships—whether personal or professional—are never quite the same again.

“Mr. Record Man” – Willie Nelson
Few songs lay bare the struggle of getting signed like this country classic, pleading for a shot at recognition.

“My Life in the Bush of Ghosts” – Brian Eno & David Byrne
Music beyond the mainstream—this experimental album challenges industry norms at every turn.

“Nobody’s Business” – Rihanna
Not every artist lets the music industry dictate their narrative—Rihanna draws the line in this defiant anthem.

“On the Radio” – Regina Spektor
A nostalgic dive into how songs shape memories, while questioning the industry’s grip on what gets heard.

“Pop Life” – Prince
Behind the shimmering synths lies a deeper exploration of fame, excess, and image-driven artistry.

“Radio Radio” – Elvis Costello
Corporate control over airwaves takes center stage as Costello rebels against industry censorship.

“Rock and Roll” – The Velvet Underground
Music’s transformative power gets celebrated—despite the industry’s constant push to package and sell it.

“So You Want to Be a Rock ’n’ Roll Star” – The Byrds
A sarcastic guide to fame, warning that success comes with a price.

“The Great Wall of China” – Billy Joel
Inspired by Joel’s own lawsuit against his manager, this track is a sobering look at financial betrayal.

“You Never Give Me Your Money” – The Beatles
Paul McCartney captures the collapse of business relationships in a song dripping with disillusionment.

The music industry is a machine, but artists never stop finding ways to expose its gears. Whether through biting satire or heartfelt reflection, these songs remind us that behind every hit, there’s a story. And sometimes it’s about the hand that feeds them

Glen Matlock’s Book ‘Triggers: A Life In Music’ Tells Punk’s Story Through 30 Songs

Eric Alper
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Glen Matlock’s Book ‘Triggers: A Life In Music’ Tells Punk’s Story Through 30 Songs

In Triggers: A Life In Music, Sex Pistols founding member Glen Matlock takes readers on a raucous ride through punk history and beyond. Told through 30 of the most influential songs in his life, this memoir blends personal milestones with legendary backstage moments. From the chaos of the Sex Pistols to collaborations with Iggy Pop, David Bowie, and Blondie, Matlock uses music as both map and mirror. The book reveals not only how punk was born, but how it never stopped evolving—with Glen right in the middle of it all.

Courting controversy wherever they went, the Sex Pistols embraced shock value and pushed boundaries, generating headlines and public outrage. Sharing insider tales of the Sex Pistols’ earliest gigs and stormiest reunions, as well as their most idiosyncratic inter-band dynamics, Glen Matlock tells his story through the impact 30 songs made in his life, including how “Starman” by David Bowie reminded him of his love for Anthony Newley or “Three Button Hand Me Down” by The Faces spoke to his hardscrabble early life in London.

Matlock’s story is the pioneering story of punk rock yet, having performed and recorded with so many musical luminaries over the decades, Glen also reflects on his time with the likes of Iggy Pop, David Bowie, the Faces, Blondie, Primal Scream, and many more.

The Greatest Acting Performances by Musicians in Music Films

Eric Alper
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The Greatest Acting Performances by Musicians in Music Films

Some musicians take the stage. Others take the screen and bring everything with them. These performances weren’t about cameos or gimmicks—they showed real presence, emotional range, and unforgettable musical moments. Here are 10 times musicians stepped into movie roles and delivered something special.

Olivia Newton-John – Grease (1978)
Olivia Newton-John became a generation-defining screen presence in Grease. From the sweet innocence of “Hopelessly Devoted to You” to the empowered energy of “You’re the One That I Want,” she captured both sides of Sandy with confidence. Her voice, charm, and performance created one of the most iconic roles in musical film history.

David Bowie – Labyrinth (1986)
Bowie’s Goblin King walked a strange line between menace and glamor, and he made every moment feel like a spell. With his own songs driving the story, he created a character that remains a fantasy icon decades later. He didn’t blend into the film—he transformed it into something otherworldly.

Prince – Purple Rain (1984)
Prince gave a raw, moody performance that felt like a glimpse into his creative soul. His presence on stage was magnetic, but the emotional weight behind his character made the film soar. The title track alone delivered a climax that still gives goosebumps.

Eminem – 8 Mile (2002)
Eminem’s portrayal of Jimmy showed the power of subtlety and authenticity. He tapped into his own background without relying on nostalgia or bravado. The final rap battle remains one of the most electrifying music scenes ever filmed.

Lady Gaga – A Star Is Born (2018)
Gaga brought a depth and vulnerability to Ally that never felt scripted. Her performance moved from soft-spoken to powerhouse as the character rose to stardom. She delivered heartbreak and beauty in every line she sang and every word she spoke.

Elvis Presley – Jailhouse Rock (1957)
Elvis made his screen presence undeniable in Jailhouse Rock, pairing charisma with sheer performance energy. The title sequence became an instant classic and showcased what made him such a cultural force. His performance still holds up as a blueprint for music stars crossing into film.

Dolly Parton – 9 to 5 (1980)
Dolly Parton lit up the screen in her very first film role with the same charm that made her a country legend. As Doralee, she balanced sharp comedic timing with genuine warmth, holding her own alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. Her theme song became an anthem, but her performance made her a movie star.

Cher – Moonstruck (1987)
Cher’s performance as Loretta Castorini is a masterclass in timing, emotion, and presence. She brought humor and heartbreak to every line, capturing the complexities of love, grief, and second chances. Her chemistry with Nicolas Cage lit up the screen, and the role earned her a well-deserved Academy Award.

Beyoncé – Dreamgirls (2006)
Beyoncé played Deena with control, nuance, and an emotional build that paid off by the end. “Listen” wasn’t just a standout track—it was a turning point in the character’s growth. She proved her ability to carry both vocal weight and dramatic tension.

Justin Timberlake – Inside Llewyn Davis (2013)
JT’s brief but memorable appearance added levity and musical warmth. His performance in “Please Mr. Kennedy” showed that even in a small role, he could contribute to the tone and rhythm of the film. He balanced humor and sincerity with ease.

10 of the Greatest Residencies in Music History

Eric Alper
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10 of the Greatest Residencies in Music History

Some artists tour the world. Others set up camp and let the world come to them. These 10 residencies were musical landmarks. They changed careers, cities, and sometimes even entire genres.

1. Elvis Presley – Las Vegas Hilton (1969–1976)
When Elvis returned to live performance in 1969, he chose Vegas—and never looked back. With over 600 shows at the Las Vegas Hilton, he brought glitz, jumpsuits, and charisma to the desert like no one else. This residency redefined his career and laid the blueprint for what a Vegas residency could be.

2. Prince – The Forum, Los Angeles (2011)
In a whirlwind of 21 shows at The Forum, Prince turned a classic L.A. venue into his personal playground. No two nights were the same, with rotating setlists, surprise guests, and jaw-dropping performances. It felt like the Purple One opened a portal to another world—and invited the whole city inside.

3. Billy Joel – Madison Square Garden (2014–present)
Since 2014, Billy Joel has been playing one show a month at Madison Square Garden, a love letter to the city that made him. With each sold-out performance, he’s proven that a hometown hero can keep packing the house with nothing but a piano, a voice, and a back catalog of classics.

4. Céline Dion – Caesars Palace, Las Vegas (2003–2007; 2011–2019)
Céline Dion didn’t just move to Vegas—she helped reinvent it. Her first residency was so successful that Caesars built a $95 million theater just for her. With powerhouse vocals and elegant staging, she elevated the concept of a residency into something majestic.

5. The Beatles – Hamburg, Germany (1960–1962)
Before Beatlemania took over the world, The Beatles were grinding it out in Hamburg clubs, playing hours every night for rowdy crowds. These early residencies shaped their sound, chemistry, and confidence. Hamburg is where The Beatles became a band.

6. Lady Gaga – Park MGM, Las Vegas (2018–present)
Lady Gaga’s residency offered fans two sides of the same star: the avant-garde energy of her pop show Enigma, and the classy, old-Hollywood vibe of Jazz & Piano. It was a bold and brilliant way to showcase her range—and prove that Vegas is about reinvention and celebration.

7. Frank Sinatra – Sands Hotel, Las Vegas (1953–1967)
Sinatra owned the room at the Sands—he. With the Rat Pack often dropping by and a cigarette never far away, these shows defined Vegas cool in the ’50s and ’60s. The residency helped turn Las Vegas into a global entertainment capital.

8. Adele – Caesars Palace, Las Vegas (2022–2023)
After a bumpy start and a delayed launch, Adele’s Weekends With Adele proved worth the wait. Raw, emotional, and often hilarious, the residency showcased her powerhouse vocals and down-to-earth charm. Fans were sitting in on something deeply personal.

9. Bruce Springsteen – Broadway (2017–2018; 2021)
Springsteen’s Broadway run was a revelation. Alone on stage with a guitar or piano, he told stories of his childhood, fame, and dreams with poetic detail. It stripped away the stadium roar and offered something rare: an intimate portrait of the man behind the myth.

10. Phish – Madison Square Garden (2011–present)
Phish’s annual New Year’s runs at Madison Square Garden have become a rite of passage for jam band fans. With no two setlists ever the same, elaborate stage antics, and marathon performances, the band has transformed MSG into their home turf. These residencies are immersive, communal celebrations of spontaneity and sound.

These residencies were cultural landmarks. Night after night, they turned venues into temples, cities into legends, and performers into icons.

10 Bands That Changed Their Sound SO MUCH

Eric Alper
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10 Bands That Changed Their Sound SO MUCH

What do Radiohead and The Beatles have in common? They both pulled the ultimate musical magic trick—reinventing their sound again and again while still sounding exactly like themselves. Some artists evolve. These ones shapeshift. Here are 10 bands who changed their sound so much, it felt like a brand-new band every time they hit “record.”

1. Radiohead

Started with: angsty alt-rock guitars
Ended up with: glitchy electronica, jazz drums, and haunting abstractions
Why it’s wild: From “Creep” to Kid A, they didn’t just change genres—they rewrote the rules.

2. The Beatles

Started with: lovable mop-top pop
Ended up with: psychedelic studio wizards and avant-garde pioneers
Why it’s wild: They went from “She Loves You” to “Tomorrow Never Knows” in just three years.

3. Talking Heads

Started with: twitchy punk-funk
Ended up with: worldbeat, disco, gospel, and straight-up Afro-futurism
Why it’s wild: Every album sounded like a different art school exploded in the best way possible.

4. King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard

Started with: psych garage
Ended up with: thrash metal, jazz fusion, microtonal experiments, and synth-pop
Why it’s wild: They change genres faster than most bands change guitar strings—and sometimes do it twice a year.

5. Fleetwood Mac

Started with: British blues rock
Ended up with: shimmering California pop perfection
Why it’s wild: Losing Peter Green, gaining Lindsey & Stevie, and somehow making it all work beautifully.

6. Paramore

Started with: emo-pop-punk anthems
Ended up with: sleek alt-pop, ‘80s synth, and a whole new emotional register
Why it’s wild: Their 2023 album sounds closer to Talking Heads than Warped Tour.

7. Bring Me the Horizon

Started with: deathcore breakdowns
Ended up with: arena-ready pop, alt-rock, and EDM-infused anthems
Why it’s wild: They didn’t just change their sound—they blew up genre gatekeeping on the way.

8. Beck

Started with: slacker anti-folk
Ended up with: funk, soul, bossa nova, hip-hop, orchestral ballads—you name it
Why it’s wild: Each album is like a musical time capsule from another planet.

9. The 1975

Started with: dreamy indie-pop
Ended up with: sax solos, ambient noise, alt-country, hyperpop, and back again
Why it’s wild: Genre-fluid before the term existed, they thrive in controlled chaos.

10. Genesis

Started with: epic, theatrical progressive rock featuring Peter Gabriel in flower costumes
Ended up with: polished, radio-friendly pop led by Phil Collins’ soulful hooks
Why it’s wild: They transformed from cult art-rock innovators to stadium-filling hitmakers—with both versions of the band equally iconic.

11. AC/DC

Started with: gritty blues-based hard rock
Ended up with: gritty blues-based hard rock
Why it’s wild: It’s not. And that’s the beauty of it. Same amps, same riffs, same swagger. I just wanted to add them here.

Every one of these bands broke their own mold—and kept us listening. Reinvention isn’t easy, but for these artists, it’s the reason they’ve stayed unforgettable.

10 Trending Print on Demand Business Ideas to Start Today

Eric Alper
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By Mitch Rice

Whether you’re a creative entrepreneur or a music lover looking to turn your passion into profit, POD offers a low-risk way to launch unique products without inventory hassles. 

In this article, they’ll explore 10 trending print-on-demand business ideas inspired by the vibrant world of music—perfect for anyone ready to make their mark in this booming market. Let’s dive in and find your next big opportunity.

How to Start a Print-on-Demand Business

1. Pick a Niche That Speaks to You

Starting a print-on-demand (POD) business begins with picking a niche. The music industry offers huge potential. Whether it’s indie bands, hip-hop culture, or classical fans, targeting a specific audience gives your brand focus. 

The rise of on demand printing services makes it easier than ever to serve niche fanbases with custom products.

2. Understand Your Audience

Are you creating for vinyl collectors? Streetwear-loving rap fans? Music teachers? Knowing who you’re talking to helps you design products that click. 

A hoodie that says “I Pause Songs to Appreciate the Bassline” might not appeal to everyone—but for music nerds, it’s gold.

3. Design with Emotion

Your product designs should reflect your audience’s passion. You don’t need to be a pro—use Canva or hire a designer. Try hoodies with waveform art from iconic tracks or posters inspired by vintage gig flyers.

4. Choose the Right Platform

Use a platform like PrintKK, which seamlessly integrates with Shopify or Etsy—allowing you to focus on creativity while it handles the printing, packing, and shipping for you. This makes scaling your business easier without worrying about logistics or inventory.

5. Market to the Right Crowd

Promote your store through music-centered communities where your target audience hangs out. Use TikTok mashups featuring your merch, create Instagram Reels showing your products at concerts or jam sessions, and collaborate with playlist curators to embed your brand into their music. 

10 Trending Print on Demand Business Ideas

Tote Bags for Music Teachers & Gig-Goers

Tote bags aren’t just for groceries—they’re statement pieces. Print them with chord charts, clever lines like “This Bag Carries More Than Just Notes,” or retro concert poster designs. They’re perfect for music teachers hauling sheet music or fans hitting weekend gigs.

T-Shirts That Sing

T-shirts offer endless design potential. Create prints with iconic lyric quotes, visual mashups of genres, or abstract album-inspired art. A shirt reading “Loop It Like It’s Hot” appeals to producers, while “Support Local Bands” resonates with indie lovers.

Bucket Hats for Festival Season

Festival-goers love expressive headwear. Use designs inspired by synthwave, psychedelic art, or glitch textures common in EDM visuals. 

Add text like “Bass in My Bones” or “Setlist Slayer” to create hats that feel like part of the concert uniform. These hats not only protect from the sun but also complete the festival look perfectly.

Socks with Rhythm

Turn ordinary socks into fun, music-loving accessories. Use prints featuring guitar strings, piano keys, or even full drum kits wrapping around the ankle. And if you rely on frequent test prints to finalize your designs, keeping an eye on ink levels is crucial—Sell Toner offers tips on how to tell if an ink cartridge is empty, so you’re never caught off guard mid-creation.” Imagine a mismatched pair where one sock says “Bass” and the other says “Treble”—playful and perfectly on-brand.

Shoes That Play the Part

Custom shoes give music lovers a way to wear their passion literally. Design sneakers with waveforms from famous songs, iconic festival silhouettes, or vintage cassette tape patterns. Great for performers or fans looking to stand out at their next show.

Phone Cases with a Musical Soul

Phone cases are seen every day, making them prime space for music flair. Try minimalist designs of instruments, colorful EQ bars, or song lyric typography. 

A case with a saxophone silhouette and the phrase “Jazzed Up” adds cool to everyday tech. Durable materials combined with unique prints make these cases both functional and stylish.

Stickers for Gear and Guitars

Stickers let fans decorate their world. Design them with stylized artist names, iconic instrument shapes, or micro-genre logos like “Ambient Techno Nerd.” Perfect for laptops, guitar cases, mixers, or water bottles—wherever music makers leave their mark.

Hoodies for Studio Sessions

Hoodies are staples for musicians, especially during late-night studio marathons. Print them with waveform bands, vintage mic graphics, or lyrics in handwritten fonts. A hoodie that says “Made in the Mix” blends comfort with creative identity, keeping artists cozy while inspiring creativity through every session.

Posters for True Fans

Posters are timeless wall art. Offer designs that remix album covers into modern art, showcase minimalist portraits of legends like Bowie or Joni Mitchell, or visualize soundscapes in graphic form. Ideal for home studios, rehearsal rooms, or dorms.

Mugs for Morning Jams

Morning coffee hits differently with music-themed mugs. Print slogans like “I Wake Up in 4/4 Time” or illustrations of classic radios and boomboxes. 

Great for musicians composing at dawn or fans who start every day with their favorite playlist. These mugs also make perfect gifts for music lovers who appreciate a little caffeine and creativity.

Conclusion

The print-on-demand industry is booming, and music-themed products offer a unique way to tap into passionate, engaged audiences. Whether you choose to create custom tees, quirky socks, or stylish phone cases, there’s immense potential to build a brand that resonates. 

Start small, experiment with designs, and connect with music communities to grow your presence. Now’s the time to take the leap—your next bestseller could be just one design away.

‘Fade Away and Radiate’ By Simon Fellowes Chronicles Chrysalis Records’ Daring Legacy

Eric Alper
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‘Fade Away and Radiate’ By Simon Fellowes Chronicles Chrysalis Records’ Daring Legacy

Fade Away and Radiate by Simon Fellowes tells the electrifying rise of Chrysalis Records, a label that helped shape the sound and style of an era. It’s the story of risk-takers, rebels, and a roster that redefined pop, punk, and everything in between.

This is a story of a time in music history when everything changed. When maverick entrepreneurs could take on the major labels and beat them at their own game. When bands became global, communicating on vast stages, in front of enormous crowds, while beamed across the world live on TV. It was a time when fashion changed like the wind. When new scenes arrived as if out of nowhere. When misfits and outsiders could become instant superstars. Working to make this happen were a select group of individuals, passionate, determined, single-minded, and alert.

Two of the most successful were Chris Wright and Terry Ellis. Their label, Chrysalis Records, was a British independent record company that built a global reputation thanks to its ability to discover and develop a ground-breaking roster of musical acts whose albums and singles became number one hits all over the world.

From Jethro Tull to Blondie, Spandau Ballet to The Specials, Billy Idol to Sinead O’Connor, Pat Benatar to Huey Lewis and the News, the artists Chrysalis signed made a lasting impact on our culture.

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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

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