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Eric Clapton Celebrates 20 Years of Signature Strings with Martin Guitar Giveaway and Unplugged Reissue

Eric Alper
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Eric Clapton Celebrates 20 Years of Signature Strings with Martin Guitar Giveaway and Unplugged Reissue

For two decades, Clapton’s Choice Signature Strings have delivered the legendary tone Eric Clapton relies on every time he picks up an acoustic guitar. To celebrate this milestone, Martin Guitar is introducing limited-edition 20th anniversary packaging for these fan-favorite strings—available now through March 2026.

Every limited-edition pack also gives players a chance to win a Martin 000-EC 30th Anniversary guitar—a beautifully crafted instrument with a retail value of $4,999, inspired by the Martin guitars Eric played during his legendary MTV Unplugged performance. The guitar will be awarded to one lucky winner who finds a special ticket inside a pack of strings.

Fans can also enter a second-chance giveaway online for more opportunities to win exclusive prizes, including a Martin guitar strap, poster, collectible lanyard with three custom patches, or even a year’s supply of strings.

This contest is open to U.S. residents only and ends March 31, 2026. No purchase necessary.

Enter now and learn more at martinguitar.com/eric-clapton-giveaway.

The anniversary release also coincides with the upcoming arrival of Unplugged: Enhanced Edition on vinyl and CD, available May 9. The iconic installment of the MTV Unplugged series—and the greatest-selling live album of all time—returns over 30 years later in an all-new extended, remixed, and remastered version. Featuring never-before-heard commentary from Eric recorded just before the original 1992 performance, the release offers fresh insight into the inspiration behind the songs and includes tracks not featured in the original MTV airing.

Crafted from 92/8 phosphor bronze, Clapton’s Choice Signature Strings are known for their warm, rich tone, smooth feel, and long-lasting performance. They’re the same strings Eric uses in the studio and on stage—including during his current eight-night residency at the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo—and he calls them “the sound that I demand.”

Whether you’re chasing Eric’s iconic tone or simply looking for strings that deliver great sound and playability, now is the perfect time to pick up a pack—available in a music store near you or online at martinguitar.com—and celebrate two decades of signature sound.

Crown Royal Expands Partnership with Kane Brown for The High Road Tour and Launches Summer Sessions Contest

Eric Alper
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Crown Royal Expands Partnership with Kane Brown for The High Road Tour and Launches Summer Sessions Contest

Award-winning whisky Crown Royal partnered with multi-platinum country music artist Kane Brown for a second year, returning as the Official Whisky Sponsor of the North American leg of the superstar’s The High Road Tour.

This past weekend, The Crown Royal Rig touched down in Nashville timed to Kane Brown’s tour stop in the Music City! The brand toasted to the partnership and brought the spirit of generosity to life through a series of elevated experiences. The weekend began with a backstage VIP takeover where guests 21+ were invited to receive exclusive concert merch, enjoy Kane Brown’s signature Crown Royal cocktails, the Crown Royal Ranch Water and the Blackberry Ginger Lemonade, and meet the star before he hit the stage. Broadway-goers 21+ had a chance to capture a photo with the Crown Royal Rig and grab official merch as they enjoyed a night on the town. The celebration culminated at long-time brand partner CreatiVets’ 5th Annual Golf Tournament, where Crown Royal honored veterans alongside celebrity golfers.

The Crown Royal Rig is officially joining the country music star on the road, taking the partnership with Kane Brown to the next level! The larger-than-life-18-wheeler will pull up to select U.S. cities on the tour schedule, to share the spirit of generosity. Fans 21+ will be invited to participate in the Purple Bag Project†, an initiative dedicated to turning donated Crown Royal bags into care packages for active serving military around the world.

“Crown Royal shares many of the values I hold close to my heart, especially when it comes to giving back to the military community,” Brown shared. “I am proud to continue my partnership with the brand and I’m excited to be back on the road, alongside The Crown Royal Rig, making this partnership even bigger in year two!”

The whisky brand also relaunched the CROWN ROYAL SUMMER SESSIONS CONTEST.* With thousands of nominations in its inaugural year, the 2025 contest has expanded by inviting fans to nominate not only military veterans, but also those (25+) who donated their time to military-related charities. Two winners and their guests (the persons who nominated them) will be invited to enjoy an intimate performance with Brown later this summer. For every valid nomination, Crown Royal will donate $1 to CreatiVets, a nonprofit organization that helps veterans heal through music and the arts. Since the start of their partnership nearly three years ago, Crown Royal has spearheaded efforts to raise over $370,000 in support of the CreatiVets’ cause. ‡

“Country music and whisky are the perfect pair and we’re happy to provide a platform for fans to give back to the military community while enjoying music they love!” said Hadley Schafer, Vice President of Crown Royal. “We’re proud to have long standing relationships with organizations like CreatiVets and Packages From Home, that support those who have served our country. And with Kane Brown by our side for the second year, we’re excited to give back in an even more impactful way!”

Crown Royal’s three-year partnership with CreatiVets underscores its broader commitment to giving back to both military and country music fans. Crown Royal is woven into the fabric of country music. From long-standing partnerships with the CMA Awards to collaborations with rising stars and superstars like Kane Brown, Nate Smith and Tanner Adell, the brand has become an integral part of the genre’s rich tapestry.

Crown Royal reminds everyone 21+ that living generously is not about what you have, but about what you give. And, most importantly, to always drink responsibly.

Skullcandy and Bose Redefine Affordable Premium Audio with the Launch of Method 360 ANC

Eric Alper
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Skullcandy and Bose Redefine Affordable Premium Audio with the Launch of Method 360 ANC

Skullcandy, in partnership with Bose, is breaking barriers in personal audio with the release of Method 360 ANC – a premium true wireless earbud engineered for high-quality audio, advanced noise canceling, and everyday style.

Method 360 ANC launches at an MSRP of $129.99, but fans can get in early at a special $99.99 introductory price. Designed for those who want it all – sound quality, comfort, and design – without breaking the bank, this is Skullcandy’s most advanced audio experience to date.

“This product sets a new standard,” said Justin Regan, VP of Marketing at Skullcandy. “We’re launching at $99.99 because we want more people to hear what’s next. But make no mistake – Method 360 ANC belongs in the premium tier.”

Refined fit, redesigned experience: Method 360 ANC features an all-new slider charging case with a built-in O-ring clip, upgraded tactile finish, and up to 40 hours of battery life. The earbuds come with multiple sets of fit fins and gels that leverage licensed technology from Bose for a secure, ultra-comfortable fit and superior noise isolation.

Skullcandy Method 360 ANC with Sound by Bose technology is now available globally at Skullcandy.com and select retail locations. Consumers can choose from five unique colorways including Black, Bone, Primer, Plasma, and Leopard.

Technical Details Include:

  • Sound By Bose technology – Industry-leading audio tuning and performance.
  • Battery Life – Up to 40 hours when ANC mode is turned off (11 in buds, 29 in case). Up to 32 hours when ANC mode is turned on (9 in buds, 23 in case).
  • Noise Isolating Fit – Ergonomic, ovalized design provides all-day comfort and a noise-isolating fit. Three different sized pairs of fit fins and three sets of ear gels, leveraging licensed technology from Bose, help ensure a perfect fit and block out unwanted sound.
  • Adjustable 4-Mic Hybrid Active Noise Canceling – Next-level premium noise cancellation with customizable Stay-Aware mode options.
  • Low Latency Audio – Provides an optimal experience for watching videos or playing games.
  • Auto On/Connect and Wear Detection
  • IPX4 Sweat + Water Resistant
  • Skull-iQ App Compatible – Unlock Method 360 ANC’s full potential with the Skull-iQ App. Choose one of 3 preset EQ settings or customize your own, reconfigure the button functions, adjust your Stay-Aware or ANC modes, and more.
  • Rapid Charge – A 10-minute charge provides 2 hours of playtime.
  • Clear Voice Smart Mic – Provides a reduction in background noise to ensure calls are crystal clear.
  • Spotify Tap Compatible
  • Preset & Custom EQ Modes
  • Google Fast Pair
  • Multipoint Pairing – Pair to multiple devices at once for seamless transitions.
  • Natural Voice Sidetone for Calls – Counteract occlusion, allowing users to hear their own voice more naturally.
  • Bluetooth (v5.3) + LE Audio

 

SoundExchange and NAB Reach Five-Year Deal on Royalty Rates for Broadcasters

Eric Alper
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SoundExchange and NAB Reach Five-Year Deal on Royalty Rates for Broadcasters

SoundExchange and the National Association of Broadcasters today announced an agreement on non-subscription rates applicable to Commercial Broadcasters and other royalty payment details. Announced ahead of the Copyright Royalty Board’s Web VI upcoming rate setting hearings, the deal covers the five-year period beginning in 2026 and lasting through 2030.

According to the agreement, the per performance non-subscription rate will increase from the current rate of $0.0025 to $0.0028 in 2026 and grow by a fixed amount of $0.0001 each year, reaching $0.0032 in 2030. Additionally, the settlement shortens the payment and reporting deadlines to 30 days after the end of the month, reduces and caps the late fees assessed to broadcasters during audits when an auditor determines that there has been an underpayment of royalties, gradually increases the annual minimum fee payments, and requires access to performance data held by third-party vendors to help ensure accurate reporting.

“This settlement with broadcasters provides needed increases for the creative community we represent, and allows us to forego the costs, uncertainties, and distraction connected with any litigation,” said Michael Huppe, President & CEO of SoundExchange. “Striking a business solution that both parties can accept has many benefits over battling it out in court and allows us to focus resources on other efforts and services benefiting our creator community.”

“We are extremely pleased that we were able to come to terms with SoundExchange,” said Curtis LeGeyt, President and CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters. “This settlement provides critical certainty around streaming rates in a way that is sustainable for broadcasters large and small, ensuring that local stations can continue to deliver the experiences and connection that millions of listeners depend on every day. It also includes meaningful improvements in areas like audit late fees and minimum payments, helping broadcasters focus their resources on serving fans and supporting the artists who make broadcast radio so impactful, all while avoiding the high costs of litigation.”

Key points of the NAB / SoundExchange agreement include:

  • Royalty Rates: Non-subscription rate applicable to Commercial Broadcasters will increase from $0.0025 in 2025 to $0.0028 in 2026 and $0.0001 each year thereafter through 2030.
    • 2026: $0.0028
    • 2027: $0.0029
    • 2028: $0.0030
    • 2029: $0.0031
    • 2030: $0.0032
  • Minimum Fees: The current annual minimum fee of $1,000 will increase to $1,100 in 2026 and then by $50 annually, reaching $1,250 in 2029 and staying flat in 2030. Annual minimum fees will be capped at 100x the per station amount (e.g., $110,000 in 2026, $125,000 in 2029 and 2030).
  • Late Fees: Underpayments revealed through an audit will now incur a reduced 1% late fee rate per month for the period when the audit is first noticed through the date the final audit report is issued. The existing 1.5% late fee rate per month for all other late payments remains unchanged. In addition, late fees on underpayments discovered during an audit will be capped at 75% of the total amount the auditors determine is owed pursuant to the audit.
  • Payment and Reporting Timing: The deadline for reporting and payment will be 30 days after the end of the month, shortened from the current timing of 45 days.
  • Third-Party Vendor Access: Beginning January 1, 2027, licensees must contractually provide for access to perforxmance data held by third-party vendors.

Pop Singer Kelly Yu Releases World’s First AI Anime Music Video for Song “Werewolf” in Collaboration with CreateAI

Eric Alper
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Pop Singer Kelly Yu Releases World’s First AI Anime Music Video for Song “Werewolf” in Collaboration with CreateAI

n an unprecedented fusion of technology and artistry, renowned Chinese-Canadian Singer and Actress Kelly Yu has teamed up with CreateAI, a global artificial intelligence company, to produce a revolutionary music video for her new single “Werewolf.” The partnership signifies the first time a music video by a major recording artist has been created from concept to completion employing generative AI.

Watch the music video at https://x.com/IamCreateAI/status/1912344209752727700

The collaboration also highlights the power of the combined efforts of human directors, production artists, and a cutting-edge generative AI model, bringing Ms. Yu’s creative vision to life in a way never seen before. Through leveraging CreateAI’s model, the creative team seamlessly integrated human drawn key-frames and direction with AI-generated videos, resulting in fine detail and nuance perfectly buttressing the song’s emotional depth and complexity.

The three-and-a-half-minute video presents an air of dark mystery, offering a shadowy theme of a fairy tale with elements such as castles, forests, werewolves, and romance. The male and female protagonists use dance to weave a story of desire. Unlike past AI-generated videos, the difficult dance moves in the film are presented in a more refined manner, with consistent and fine facial characteristics seen in the characters.

Kelly Yu said, “I’m thrilled to be at the forefront of this groundbreaking project. Collaborating with CreateAI has allowed us to really push the boundaries of what’s possible in music video production while also capturing the vision I’ve been wanting to present for quite some time. I hope audiences enjoy this work as much as I do.”

CreateAI is unique in offering an integrated approach at the intersection of generative AI and digital entertainment creation. The Company seeks to attract top tier creative talent and nurture a positive community ecosystem that benefits creative industries while generating long-term sustainable advantage. The technology employed for “Werewolf” shortened the video production time by nearly 50% while saving RMB millions in development costs.

“We are grateful to Kelly for working with us and allowing us to showcase our technology,” said Cheng Lu, CEO of CreateAI. “Our goal is to empower artists by providing them with the tools and technology needed to bring their creative visions to life. This music video is a perfect example of how generative AI can enhance human creativity and produce something unique and captivating.”

The “Werewolf” music video will be distributed across major music streaming platforms, making it accessible to a global audience. This innovative project sets a new standard for music video production and opens up exciting possibilities for future collaborations between artists and AI. At present, the work is being considered for award selection at the Beijing International Film Festival.

CreateAI (formerly TuSimple) is a global applied artificial intelligence company with offices in the US, China, and Japan. The Company has developed leading AI technology for a number of end-use applications. The Company is pioneering the future of digital entertainment content production, seamlessly blending cutting-edge generative AI technology with the creativity of world-class talent. Our mission is to redefine the boundaries of what’s possible in digital storytelling by developing immersive, captivating, and visually stunning experiences that resonate with audiences on a global scale.

Maren Morris Named Newest Ambassador for Reign Storm Energy

Eric Alper
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Maren Morris Named Newest Ambassador for Reign Storm Energy

Reign Storm, the leading zero sugar plant-based energy drink, is proud to announce acclaimed singer-songwriter Maren Morris as the brand’s newest official ambassador.

Known for her powerhouse vocals, fearless creativity, and unapologetic authenticity, Maren brings an inspiring presence to the Reign Storm brand. A passionate advocate for wellness and self-expression, Maren embodies the ethos of Reign Storm: to Live Life Better.

“It was important to me to collaborate with someone who cares about women, who cares about health and also understands sometimes we all need a little boost to be our best selves,” says Maren on why she chose to partner with Reign Storm.  “Reign Storm always helps me maintain my stamina for long days on tour, so I’m excited to introduce it to more people to help energize their day too.”

Reign Storm wants to support everyone to Live Life Better — with clean energy, bold flavor and real purpose. Each 12 oz can is packed with a blend of plant-based ingredients that support immunity, accelerate metabolism and deliver a sugar-free energy surge. Plus, Reign Storm’s 10 delicious flavors also contain Biotin to help promote hair and skin health.

“I love that Reign Storm can give me energy from its plant-based energy blend, and that it has biotin to help make my skin glow, my hair look good, and my nails grow,” adds Maren, whose favorite flavor is Valencia Orange.

As part of the partnership, Reign Storm and Maren will launch an exciting new music mentorship program which will see the award-winning singer taking talented young musicians under her wing as she helps them define their sound and launch their careers. Additional details will be announced in the coming weeks.

“Maren Morris represents everything Reign Storm stands for strength, individuality and bold authenticity – making her the perfect ambassador,” says Global CMO of Monster Energy, Dan McHugh. “We’re excited to partner with her.”

Maren, who recently revealed that her highly anticipated new album D R E A M S I C L E is on the way, will also appear in upcoming Reign Storm campaigns and special events throughout 2025.

Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix Brings Global Stars to the Starting Line with Kygo, Pitbull, DJ Tiësto, and More

Eric Alper
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Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix Brings Global Stars to the Starting Line with Kygo, Pitbull, DJ Tiësto, and More

South Florida Motorsports (SFM), the organizers of the FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX, announced today along with founding partner and music lineup curator Hard Rock International and Atlantic Records an incredible weekend of live music and entertainment for the fourth-year event, taking place May 2-4 in Miami Gardens. Chart-topping artists such as Kygo, Pitbull, DJ Tiësto, Kaskade, Sofi Tukker and Cedric Gervais will keep the party going all weekend, making the FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX truly “the race that’s an experience”.

Hard Rock International will host its Hard Rock Beach Club for a trackside day club experience with chart-topping artists once again. International dance music superstar Kygo will kick off the race weekend with an uplifting dance set on Friday, May 2, followed by DJ and electronic music icon Kaskade on Saturday, May 3. On race day, Sunday, May 4, GRAMMY Award-winning artist and Miami native Pitbull will keep the trackside party going with his music that’s beloved worldwide.

Adding to the electrifying lineup of world-class performances is GRAMMY® Award-winning DJ and dance music producer Tiësto, who will perform on the starting grid and post-race podium on Sunday, May 4, igniting the crowd with his iconic sound before the race begins, in addition to the podium concert after the checkered flag. The set will be broadcast live across the entire Miami International Autodrome Campus. Award-winning artist Maffio will take over on Saturday for the sounds ahead of the Sprint.

Before lights out on Sunday, fans will be treated to a heartwarming rendition of the U.S. National Anthem performed by a talented local student from nearby Fort Lauderdale. King Bell, a 15-year-old with an extraordinary voice, has previously performed at Hard Rock Stadium for the Miami Dolphins and will now sing a stirring version of the anthem to a global TV audience of millions. Currently studying at Parkway Middle School, the eighth grader is a member of Broward Center Spotlights and has been performing since he was six years old. The pre-race grid ceremonies will also feature a performance by Justin Quiles, showcasing the dance and music styles of the diverse Miami culture.

“As we continue to build on the incredible energy and cultural vibrancy of Miami, we’re thrilled to offer fans an unforgettable weekend that blends world-class racing with top-tier music performances,” said Tyler Epp, President of the FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX. “With a talented local artist singing the National Anthem, DJ Tiësto taking over the starting grid and podium, and global superstars like Kygo, Pitbull, Kaskade, and others performing at Hard Rock Beach Club, we’re delivering an experience that captures the essence of Miami’s music scene alongside the speed and excitement of Formula 1.”

The Hard Rock Beach Club continues to be one of the most iconic hospitality spaces at Miami International Autodrome. Located on the outside of Turns 11-13 on the track, it offers guests a stunning view of the racing action, also seen on giant displays around the large day club space. Exclusively available to Hard Rock Beach Club ticket holders, this luxury space features cabana-style seating, signature pools, bars and all-day cuisine, and features incredible live, outdoor performances. Hard Rock Beach Club ticket information can be found at F1MiamiGP.com. 

“Hard Rock is thrilled to curate another energy-packed lineup for a nonstop party at the Hard Rock Beach Club,” said Keith Sheldon, President of Entertainment and Brand Management at Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming. “We’re continuing to elevate the experience with incredible music that brings fans back year after year.”

Beyond the Track at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
The nearby Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood will be celebrating the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix all weekend with Pitbull jumpstarting the festivities with a highly anticipated performance at the 7,000-capacity Hard Rock Live on Thursday, May 1, followed by Kygo taking the stage on Friday, May 2. Tickets are available at casino.hardrock.com/hollywood/entertainment/hard-rock-live.

Additionally, Sofi Tukker will keep the vibes high at the Guitar Pool for The Official Formula 1® Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix Pool Party on Saturday, May 3. The event will feature a Stunt by Red Bull Air Force. VIP packages and Bora Bora Cabanas are available. For more information, visit https://www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com/formula-1-miami-grand-prix-weekend. Must be 21+ to attend.

5 Surprising Facts About George Harrison’s “All Things Must Pass”

Eric Alper
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5 Surprising Facts About George Harrison’s “All Things Must Pass”

For an album that’s sold millions, launched George Harrison into the stratosphere, and changed the very idea of what a “solo Beatle” could sound like, All Things Must Pass still holds onto a few secrets. Beyond the anthems and the grandeur, it’s a universe of whispered collaborations, spiritual awakenings, and creative outbursts that spilled far beyond a triple LP.

Phil Collins played on it… or so he thought.
In 1970, a young Phil Collins was invited to play congas on “Art of Dying.” He showed up, played his part, and left with stars in his eyes. But when the album came out—no Phil. Years later, Harrison cheekily sent him a tape of his “performance” with his congas barely audible, replaced by laughter. Harrison gave him a credit on the 30th anniversary reissue of the album, but Collins’ playing does not appear on the track. You don’t forget your first Beatle session, even if you’re technically not on the record.

The gnomes on the cover weren’t just gnomes.
The iconic album cover shows George sitting cross-legged at Friar Park, surrounded by four garden gnomes. A quirky photo? Sure. But to many—including critics at the time—it was a tongue-in-cheek metaphor. George towering above four silent figures, no longer one of the Fab Four, was his subtle but cheeky way of declaring independence. “I’m not in your band anymore,” the gnomes say without speaking.

The first track he recorded was a shot at McCartney.
“Wah-Wah,” the first track laid down for the album, was Harrison’s sonic middle finger to the toxic energy in the Beatles’ final days. Written the day he temporarily quit the band during the Get Back sessions, it’s both blistering and cathartic. The wall of sound production only heightens the emotional release.

Bob Dylan co-wrote the album’s very first song.
“I’d Have You Anytime” is the gentle opener that sets the tone for All Things Must Pass—and it came straight from George and Bob Dylan jamming at Bob’s house in Woodstock. Harrison asked Dylan to let him in, and Dylan answered with the chorus. Dylan didn’t perform on the album, but his spirit is in every groove. Their friendship would stretch into the Traveling Wilburys, but this was the first real musical handshake.

It launched more than just Harrison’s solo career—it launched Derek and the Dominos.
Eric Clapton didn’t just show up to help out a friend. The sessions were so electric that Clapton, along with Bobby Whitlock, Jim Gordon, and Carl Radle, decided to form their own band: Derek and the Dominos. You can hear the energy that would later define Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs right there in “Apple Jam.” So yes, George’s solo album gave birth to another classic rock legend.

For George, All Things Must Pass was a declaration of independence, of talent, of spirituality, and of what happens when a quiet Beatle finally speaks loud enough for the world to listen. More than five decades later, its stories still unfold like hidden verses. We may never know all the secrets locked in those tapes, but these five remind us: George wasn’t just catching up—he was leading the way.

Derek Forbes Publishes “A Very Simple Mind” Memoir of a Life in Rock and Basslines

Eric Alper
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Derek Forbes Publishes “A Very Simple Mind” Memoir of a Life in Rock and Basslines

In A Very Simple Mind, Derek Forbes—founding member and bassist of Simple Minds—shares his long-awaited autobiography, tracing his journey through the peaks of rock stardom. Known for his thunderous basslines and songwriting that helped define the band’s sound, Forbes tells the inside story of life on the road, in the studio, and beyond with rare candor and humour. From Simple Minds to collaborations with David Bowie and Iggy Pop, his story is essential reading for any fan of ‘80s rock and new wave.

The much-anticipated story from the man behind the success of Simple Minds. The long-awaited autobiography by Derek Forbes, the Simple Minds legend known for those iconic spine-rattling bass riffs which we recognize in many Simple Minds’ songs. This is his story. Derek Forbes started his musical career as a lead guitarist but soon changed to bass guitarist. He is known for those iconic spine-rattling bass riffs which we recognize in most Simple Minds’ songs and he wrote and co-wrote many of the band’s earliest classics. Derek is also well-known on the international stage as songwriter and bassist for Big Country and Propaganda and has recorded with Iggy Pop, David Bowie, Dave Gilmour of Pink Floyd and Kirsty MacColl. He won an Ivor Novello Award for ‘Outstanding Song Collection’ in 2016 for his song writing for Simple Minds, voted best bass player in the World 1982 and best- bass player from Scotland in 2010. He still lives in Glasgow and is planning his next tour.

Tom Werman Tells All in “Turn It Up My Time!: Making Hit Records in the Glory Days of Rock Music”

Eric Alper
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0

In Turn It Up! My Time Making Hit Records in the Glory Days of Rock Music, producer and A&R legend Tom Werman pulls back the curtain on his decades-long career at the heart of the rock and metal explosion. From discovering REO Speedwagon and Boston to producing platinum-selling albums by Mötley Crüe, Poison, Twisted Sister, and more, Werman’s memoir is a backstage pass to the stories behind some of the biggest records of the ’70s and ’80s.

Growing up in the Boston suburbs, Tom Werman was deeply affected by pop music from a young age. He long dreamed of a career in music—first as Elvis, then as the next George Harrison—but it almost didn’t turn out that way. Dutifully following the path his parents had laid out for him, he obtained an MBA from an Ivy League university and took a plum job in an industry he came to despise. Then, in 1970, a chance letter sent to CBS Records boss Clive Davis led to a new opportunity . . . and a place in rock’n’roll history.

As an A&R man at Epic Records, Werman helped introduce the world to REO Speedwagon, Boston, Ted Nugent, and Cheap Trick; he also discovered KISS, Rush, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, but his record label passed on all of them. Then, as an independent producer, he oversaw landmark albums by Mötley Crüe (Shout At The Devil), Twisted Sister (Stay Hungry), Lita Ford (Dangerous Curves), Jeff Beck (Live With Jan Hammer), Poison (Open Up And Say … Ahh!), and many more. All in all, his record-making résumé includes twenty-three gold- or platinum-selling albums and cumulative sales of more than fifty-two million copies.

After bearing witness to several sea changes in the music industry, Werman retired from producing in 2001 and reinvented himself as an award-winning innkeeper in the Berkshire Hills of Massachusetts. And that might have been that—until an off-the-cuff rebuttal to a disparaging critique of his role in making the Mötley Crüe album Girls, Girls, Girls on a music website led to a fortnightly column and now this book—an honest and engaging insider account on how some of the best-loved albums of the 1970s and 80s came to be. A must for anyone interested in the glory days of rock and metal, Turn It Up! offers valuable insights into the recording process, the recording studio, the role of the producer, and the production values that are essential to the creation of a hit record.

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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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