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Rock Is LitKim Gottlieb-Walker’s Journey from Rock & Film Photography to Fiction TeaserIn this special Rock is Lit episode—available exclusively on YouTube—legendary rock and film photographer Kim Gottlieb-Walker joins Christy to talk about her novel, ‘Lenswoman in Love’, a love story steeped in the sights and sounds of the 1960s and 1970s music and film scenes. Kim shares behind-the-scenes stories of working with a young Cameron Crowe and shooting icons like Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley, Gram Parsons, and Jim Morrison. She also discusses what it was like to be a film set still photographer on classics like John Carpenter's ‘Halloween’ and TV shows like 'Cheers' and 'Family Ties'. As a bonus, Kim...2025-05-1306 minRock Is LitBackstage Pass: Peter McDade & Michael Amos Cody on Rock, Fiction, and FrontmenHey, Lit listeners! It’s old home week here at the podcast. Joining me are two Rock is Lit alumni who know a thing or two about chasing musical dreams and writing fiction that grooves with soul and grit: authors and musicians Peter McDade and Michael Amos Cody.In this special episode we’re talking about their brand-new novels: Peter’s ‘King Cal’ and Michael’s ‘Streets of Nashville’. Both of these fabulous novels ask what music costs, what it gives, and who gets to be heard.Also in the episode, we’ll get to hear eac...2025-04-161h 54Rock Is LitAcross the What-If Universe: Paul Levinson On His Novel ‘It’s Real Life: An Alternate History of The Beatles’What if The Beatles did reunite—and the world was never the same?In this special episode, Christy Alexander Hallberg welcomes acclaimed author, media scholar, and musician Paul Levinson to talk about his novel ‘It’s Real Life: An Alternate History of The Beatles’, based on his award-winning short story that reimagines a very different musical timeline.Set in 1996, the novel follows legendary New York DJ Pete Fornatale as he heads to Grand Central Terminal—only to discover the music world has shifted in strange and unexpected ways. From speculativ...2025-03-2149 minRock Is LitElliott Murphy’s ‘Marty May’: A Rock ‘n’ Roll Novel Comes to LifeIn this special episode of Rock is Lit, veteran rocker and author Elliott Murphy talks about and shares an excerpt from his novel ‘Marty May’.Once a rising rock star in 1970s New York, virtuoso guitarist Marty May has lost it all—his career, his marriage, and his record deal. Now, at 33, he’s alone, drowning in debt, and questioning his future. Should he return to his blues roots with his old mentor, Blind Red Rose? Set in the 1980s, when the music industry prioritized business over artistry, ‘Marty May’ is a poignant tale of talent, temptation, and staying...2025-03-0543 minRock Is LitRock ‘n Roll, Military Life, and Coming of Age During the Cold War: Constance Squires on Her Novel ‘Along the Watchtower’Author Constance Squires returns to Rock is Lit to discuss her debut novel, ‘Along the Watchtower’, a powerful coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of military life, Cold War Germany, and rock ‘n roll. ‘Along the Watchtower’ follows thirteen-year-old Lucinda Collins as she arrives at a U.S. military base in Grafenwoehr, West Germany, in 1983. She knows the drill—setting up new quarters, navigating her parents' tensions, and keeping fellow Army brats at arm’s length, knowing friendships won’t last. She longs for a true home, but her father is haunted by Vietnam, and her mother is growing weary...2025-02-201h 15Rock Is LitYoko Ono at 92: Art, Activism & Legacy with Author Madeline BocaroIn this special episode of Rock is Lit, we celebrate Yoko Ono’s 92nd birthday by honoring her profound impact on art, music, and peace activism. Returning to the podcast is Madeline Bocaro, author of In Your Mind: The Infinite Universe of Yoko Ono, to explore Yoko’s artistic vision, her unwavering commitment to peace, and the ways her influence continues to shape generations. Building on our deep dive in Episode 47, this conversation serves as both an addendum to that episode about Madeline’s book and a tribute to Yoko’s enduring legacy.PLAYLIST
Rock...2025-02-1825 minRock Is LitPunk, Art, and London Calling in the ‘80s: Suzanne Mattaboni On Her Debut Novel, ‘Once in a Lifetime’In this final episode in the Rock is Lit Season 4 Reading Series, Suzanne Mattaboni discusses her debut novel, ‘Once in a Lifetime’, and shares excerpts from the story.Set in 1984, where punk reigns and Andy Warhol rules, 20-year-old art student Jessica longs for a life beyond her reach. Dreaming of an avant-garde study program in London, she’s stuck waitressing and navigating drama with her boyfriend Drew, who wants to date others. Life takes a turn when she meets Whit, a magnetic guitarist, and dives into a post-punk scene full of quirky characters—cheating waiters, mystics, a military...2024-12-1334 minRock Is LitBonus Featurette: Major LeGoullon on Guns N’ Roses Bassist Duff McKagan’s Autobiography ‘It’s So Easy: And Other Lies’We’re talking nonfiction in this bonus featurette crafted entirely by Season 4 Production Intern Major LeGoullon. Major shines a spotlight on Guns N’ Roses bassist Duff McKagan’s 2012 autobiography, ‘It’s So Easy: And Other Lies’, drawing connections to Rock is Lit Season 2, Episode 18. That earlier episode featured Melissa Ragsly discussing her short story collection, ‘We Know This Will All Disappear’, including the Guns N’ Roses-inspired story "Mannequin," which references their song “Rocket Queen.” The episode also included a deep dive into Guns N’ Roses, especially “Rocket Queen,” with Decibel Geek podcast co-host AAron Camaro. Major’s thoughtful commentary offers a fresh perspective on...2024-12-1208 minRock Is LitFrom Folk Clubs to Alt-Rock Festivals: Sarah Seltzer Reads From and Discusses Her Novel ‘The Singer Sisters’In this episode of the Rock is Lit Season Four Reading Series, Sarah Seltzer joins the podcast to discuss and read an excerpt from her USA Today bestselling novel, ‘The Singer Sisters’.Set in 1996, the novel follows alt-rocker Emma Cantor as she navigates the highs and lows of a rising music career while grappling with the legacy of her mother, Judie, a 1960s folk legend. Emma’s journey is marked by revelations about her family’s past, her complicated relationship with Judie, and the sacrifices women artists often make for success.Sarah shares the musical inspirat...2024-12-1030 minRock Is LitDetroit on Fire: Guest Host Andrew Smith Talks With Peter Werbe About 1967, Rock ‘n’ Roll, and Revolution in Peter’s Novel ‘Summer On Fire’In this special episode of Rock is Lit, host Christy Alexander Hallberg hands the mic to teacher, podcaster, and DJ Andrew Smith, who interviews his friend Peter Werbe about Peter’s debut novel, ‘Summer On Fire’. Peter also reads an excerpt from the book.Peter Werbe is a veteran of Detroit’s alternative and commercial media scene, as well as a political activist. A member of the editorial collective of ‘Fifth Estate’ magazine, his work appears in its online archive. His radio career spanned Detroit's major rock stations—WABX, WWWW, WRIF, and WCSX—where he hosted Nightcall, WRIF’s phone-in...2024-12-0640 minRock Is LitChasing Music Dreams in the New Wave Era: Eric Jay Sonnenschein Discusses and Reads From His Novel ‘Rocked and Rolled’In this installment of the Rock is Lit Season 4 Reading Series, Eric Jay Sonnenschein discusses and reads from his novel ‘Rocked and Rolled’, a story set in New York’s ’70s and ’80s New Wave scene that follows a young writer-turned-musician navigating the cutthroat music industry while balancing ambition with creative integrity.‘Rocked and Rolled’ conveys the perpetual human struggle to express, invent, and reinvent oneself amid scarce opportunities, annihilating competition and a recording industry that raises barriers at every turn to make artists fail.Eric Jay Sonnenschein is a novelist, essayist, poet, journalist and blogger living...2024-11-2937 minRock Is LitExploring Love, Art, Asheville, and Arcade Fire: Thomas Calder Discusses and Reads From His Novel ‘The Wind Under the Door’In the latest Season 4 episode of the Rock is Lit Reading Series, author Thomas Calder takes us into the heart of his poignant novel, ‘The Wind Under the Door’. Set against the vibrant backdrop of contemporary Asheville and the majestic North Carolina mountains, the story follows Ford Carson as he navigates love, family, and artistic reinvention. At forty, Ford has forged a new life as a visual artist in the mountains of North Carolina. A chance meeting with Grace Burnett leads to a burgeoning love affair. But the romance is complicated by Grace’s estranged husband and the unexpected arriva...2024-11-2644 minRock Is LitIt Ain’t Only Rock ‘n’ Roll: Sarah Tomlinson Talks the Rolling Stones, Anita Pallenberg, and Reads From Her Novel, ‘The Last Days of the Midnight Ramblers’In this installment of the Rock is Lit Season 4 Reading Series, Sarah Tomlinson discusses the inspiration for and reads from her debut novel, ‘The Last Days of the Midnight Ramblers’.‘The Last Days of the Midnight Ramblers’ synopsis: Anke Berben is ready to tell all. A legendary model and style icon, she reveled in headline-grabbing romances with not one but three members of the hugely influential rock band the Midnight Ramblers. The band members were as famous for their backstage drama as for their music, and Anke is the only one who fully understands the tangled relationships, betrayal...2024-11-2221 minRock Is LitWhen Pop Music Meets the Occult: O.F. Cieri Discusses and Reads From Her Novel ‘Backmask’In this installment of the Rock is Lit Season 4 Reading Series, O.F. Cieri reads an excerpt from her novel ‘Backmask’ and discusses the inspiration behind the story and the music that shaped it.Inspired by pop music history and written in the style of ‘60s horror pulp, ‘Backmask’ is the fake history of a conspiracy theory surrounding the Satanic agenda to control children’s minds. Nicholas Hush, 1960s record producer, has a vision for the future of pop music. After a series of prophetic dreams, he wants to combine occult imagery with upcoming trends to create a new, groun...2024-11-1940 minRock Is LitMurder, Music, and Mystery in LA: Philip Cohen Reads from His Novel ‘Conflict in the City’In this episode, Philip Cohen joins the Rock is Lit Season 4 Reading Series to share a few chapters of his novel ‘Conflict in the City’. Mixing and blending the genres of detective noir and music, ‘Conflict in the City’ takes place in greater Los Angeles, home to both classic and modern fictional LA detectives like Raymond Chandler’s Phillip Marlowe and Michael Connolly’s Harry Bosch, and music legends like the Doors, Van Halen, and The Mamas and The Papas.It’s in this world that we find Johnny “Whoops” Watson and Billy Bates, young guitarists/singers and their band, Con...2024-11-1530 minRock Is LitCassettes, Secrets, and Small-Town Mysteries: Matthew Fiander Reads from His Novel, ‘Ringing in Your Ears’In this episode, Matthew Fiander joins the Rock is Lit Season 4 Reading Series to discuss and read from his debut novel, ‘Ringing in Your Ears’. Set in a Boston suburb during the early ‘90s, the story follows Louise “Blue” Cleary as she navigates the emotional aftermath of her sister Christine’s mysterious death. Already struggling to fit in as a girl barred from playing baseball and an umpire facing hostility from local parents, Blue’s grief sends her on a journey to uncover truths about her sister—and herself. With Christine’s cassette tapes as clues, Blue’s search reveals buried secre...2024-11-1235 min
Pantheon - Podcasts for Music LoversRock is Lit: Bill Hallberg Rock ‘n’ Roll Short Story Contest Spotlight: General Submission Winner Mark Baumgartner Reads His Story “Last Chance for a Slow Dance”Congratulations to the winner of the first Bill Hallberg Rock ‘n’ Roll Short Story Contest in the general submissions category, Mark Baumgartner! Listen to Mark read his winning story, “Last Chance for a Slow Dance,” in this episode.Mark D. Baumgartner’s fiction has been published in many literary journals, including ‘The Southern Review’, ‘Confrontation’, ‘Best of Ohio Anthology’, ‘Bellingham Review’, ‘Silk Road’, ‘Yemassee’, ‘Wisconsin Review’, ‘Phoebe’, and ‘Tampa Review’, among others. His story, “The Great Siwash Shoe War,” won the 2014 ‘Fugue’ prize in short fiction. His writing has twice been nominated for inclusion in the Pushcart prize anthology. His story collection, ‘Last Chance for a Sl...2024-11-0841 minRock Is LitBill Hallberg Rock ‘n’ Roll Short Story Contest Spotlight: General Submission Winner Mark Baumgartner Reads His Story “Last Chance for a Slow Dance”Congratulations to the winner of the first Bill Hallberg Rock ‘n’ Roll Short Story Contest in the general submissions category, Mark Baumgartner! Listen to Mark read his winning story, “Last Chance for a Slow Dance,” in this episode.Mark D. Baumgartner’s fiction has been published in many literary journals, including ‘The Southern Review’, ‘Confrontation’, ‘Best of Ohio Anthology’, ‘Bellingham Review’, ‘Silk Road’, ‘Yemassee’, ‘Wisconsin Review’, ‘Phoebe’, and ‘Tampa Review’, among others. His story, “The Great Siwash Shoe War,” won the 2014 ‘Fugue’ prize in short fiction. His writing has twice been nominated for inclusion in the Pushcart prize anthology. His story collection, ‘Last Chance for a Sl...2024-11-0843 min
Pantheon - Podcasts for Music LoversRock is Lit: Bill Hallberg Rock ‘n’ Roll Short Story Contest Spotlight: Undergrad Student Senami Kugblenu Reads Her Winning Story, “Goat and Pearls”Congratulations to the winner of the first Bill Hallberg Rock ‘n’ Roll Short Story Contest in the undergraduate college student category, Senami Kugblenu! Listen to Senami read her winning story, “Goat and Pearls,” in this episode.Senami Kugblenu is a Nigerian-American writer, Johnston scholar, and Honors student at UNC-Chapel Hill. She is majoring in English & Comparative Literature and French and minoring in Information Systems. Her main interest is in fiction writing, but she has also explored copywriting as a copy staffer at ‘The Daily Tar Heel’, technical writing, and print and publishing. Her writing has been published in Cornell U...2024-11-0530 minRock Is LitBill Hallberg Rock ‘n’ Roll Short Story Contest Spotlight: Undergrad Student Senami Kugblenu Reads Her Winning Story, “Goat and Pearls”Congratulations to the winner of the first Bill Hallberg Rock ‘n’ Roll Short Story Contest in the undergraduate college student category, Senami Kugblenu! Listen to Senami read her winning story, “Goat and Pearls,” in this episode.Senami Kugblenu is a Nigerian-American writer, Johnston scholar, and Honors student at UNC-Chapel Hill. She is majoring in English & Comparative Literature and French and minoring in Information Systems. Her main interest is in fiction writing, but she has also explored copywriting as a copy staffer at ‘The Daily Tar Heel’, technical writing, and print and publishing. Her writing has been published in Cornell U...2024-11-0532 minRock Is LitSex, Music, Groupies, and Cults: Karen Green Discusses and Reads an Excerpt from Her Novel, ‘Yellow Birds’In this installment of the Rock is Lit Season 4 Reading Series, Karen Green discusses and reads an excerpt from her novel, ‘Yellow Birds’.‘Yellow Birds’ synopsis: Set in a time just before the digital revolution, Kait is a young woman searching for identity and community. A group of outcasts called the Yellow Birds take her town to town on what they refer to as the Open Road Tour. One night, when Kait is feeling kinship with this group of Birds, a man sits beside her who alters her fragile plans for the foreseeable future. Filled with sex, drugs, m...2024-11-0135 minRock Is LitExploring the 27 Club with a Sci-Fi Spin: Staci Layne Wilson Reads Her Short Story About Amy Winehouse, Featured in the Anthology ‘28’In this episode of the Rock is Lit Season 4 Reading Series, Staci Layne Wilson reads her short story “I Don’t Wanna Go to Remus,” featured in the anthology ‘28’. The collection imagines an alternate reality where members of the infamous 27 Club, such as Jim Morrison, Brian Jones, and Amy Winehouse, live beyond their tragic ends. In Wilson’s story, Amy—a talented but troubled musician known for her refusal to seek help—faces a surreal twist. After a life of chaotic partying comes to an abrupt halt, Amy finds herself in an otherworldly rehab facility . . . on another planet. The narrative explor...2024-10-2942 minRock Is LitMusic, Theft, and Heartbreak: Brendan Gillen Reads from His Novel ‘Static’In this episode of the Rock is Lit Season 4 Reading Series, Brendan Gillen reads from his debut novel, ‘Static’, and offers insight into the story’s themes, characters, and music. The novel follows Paul, a struggling musician in New York City who resorts to theft—of objects, opportunities, and even voices—just to survive and fuel his creative ambitions. As Paul battles heartbreak, band tensions, and family crises, he becomes desperate to hold his life together and make music that matters. ‘Static’ paints a vivid picture of a young artist navigating the challenges of modern life, set against the backdrop of th...2024-10-2545 minRock Is LitRock, Roll, and Mobsters: Stephen Shaiken Talks About and Reads From His Rock Novel ‘Queensborough Rock’In this episode of Rock is Lit, Stephen Shaiken delves into the inspiration behind his rock novel, ‘Queensborough Rock’, sharing how the music, culture, and grit of the late ‘60s and early ‘70s shaped the story. The bulk of the episode features a captivating reading from the novel, immersing listeners in a time when the music industry was as tough and unpredictable as the city itself.Stephen Shaiken was born and raised in New York City. He spent over three decades as a criminal defense lawyer in San Francisco. Before he became a lawyer, he earned an MA in Cr...2024-10-2245 min
Pantheon - Podcasts for Music LoversRock is Lit: Mysteries and Music: Christy Alexander Hallberg on ‘Searching for Jimmy Page’In this episode of the Rock is Lit Season 4 Reading Series, host Christy Alexander Hallberg celebrates the third birthday of her novel, ‘Searching for Jimmy Page’. She delves into the evocative imagery and central characters that drive the novel, while reflecting on the three previous Rock is Lit episodes centered on Led Zeppelin and ‘Searching for Jimmy Page’. Join Christy as she revisits the poignant journey of Luna Kane, an 18-year-old on a quest to uncover her deceased mother’s secrets.Set in the winter of 1988, ‘Searching for Jimmy Page’ follows Luna from her family’s farm in eastern North...2024-10-1836 minRock Is LitMysteries and Music: Christy Alexander Hallberg on ‘Searching for Jimmy Page’In this episode of the Rock is Lit Season 4 Reading Series, host Christy Alexander Hallberg celebrates the third birthday of her novel, ‘Searching for Jimmy Page’. She delves into the evocative imagery and central characters that drive the novel, while reflecting on the three previous Rock is Lit episodes centered on Led Zeppelin and ‘Searching for Jimmy Page’. Join Christy as she revisits the poignant journey of Luna Kane, an 18-year-old on a quest to uncover her deceased mother’s secrets.Set in the winter of 1988, ‘Searching for Jimmy Page’ follows Luna from her family’s farm in eastern North...2024-10-1838 minRock Is LitThe Stalker and the Rocker: Kat Hausler Reads From Her Novel ‘What I Know About July’In this installment of the Rock is Lit Season 4 Reading Series, Kat Hausler reads an excerpt from her novel ‘What I Know About July’ and discusses its creation.The novel centers around indie rocker Simon Kemper, fresh out of rehab and riding the wave of moderate success with his band in Berlin. But lurking in the background is his stalker, a mysterious figure present at every show, sending unsettling postcards to his label and acting as though she owns him. When she suddenly vanishes during one of his performances, Simon becomes the prime suspect. What begins as an a...2024-10-1541 minRock Is LitA Blast From the ‘80s: Brieanna Wilkoff Talks Bon Jovi and Reads From Her Novel ‘I’ll Be There For You’EPISODE SUMMARY:In this installment of the Rock is Lit Season 4 Reading Series, Brieanna Wilkoff shares how ‘80s music, especially Bon Jovi, influenced her novel, ‘I’ll Be There For You’ and reads an excerpt.‘I’ll Be There For You’ follows high school student Rae Ballester, who loves movie musicals and—thanks to her dad—’80s rock. Since he died a year ago, his favorite music helps keep his memory alive. Struggling to move on, Rae keeps her head down and earbuds in, but shunning the world has cost her even her closest friendships, leaving her the “Own...2024-10-1134 minRock Is LitInside ‘The Death of Rock and Roll’: A Reading with Author Ryan HyattIn this installment of the Rock is Lit Season 4 Reading Series, Ryan Hyatt reads the first chapter of his novel ‘The Death of Rock and Roll’ and gives some background on the creation of the story.‘The Death of Rock and Roll’ follows talented guitarist Darrell Breedlove, who is caught in the crosshairs of jealous psychopath Jake McKenzie, forcing Darrell to reconcile his past in order to embrace a promising future.Ryan Hyatt tells stories about your future. He is a former news reporter, current educator, and author of the Terrafide sci-fi series. He edits the sati...2024-10-0823 minRock Is LitInside ‘Rain Gray Town’: A Reading with Author Robert GreenfieldIn this episode of Rock is Lit, prolific author Robert Greenfield delves into his rock novel ‘Rain Gray Town’, offering listeners an unforgettable journey through the rise and fall of a fictional rock band set against the backdrop of London and Los Angeles. Told through the voice of a band member, the story captures the chaotic world of sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll at a time when music was life itself. Greenfield reads an excerpt from the novel, reflecting on the inspiration behind the characters who lived fast, burned bright, and sometimes didn’t survive the whirlwind.A fo...2024-10-0421 min
Pantheon - Podcasts for Music LoversRock is Lit: Garth Risk Hallberg on the Power of Music in His New Novel, ‘The Second Coming’In this first installment of the Rock is Lit Season 4 Reading Series, Garth Risk Hallberg introduces us to his latest novel, ‘The Second Coming’, reading a powerful excerpt and shedding light on the book's evolution. He shares insights into how music, especially the music of Prince, is woven into the narrative and why it plays such a pivotal role.Set in the spring of 2011, ‘The Second Coming’ follows thirteen-year-old Jolie Aspern, who narrowly escapes a subway accident after trying to retrieve her phone. Her estranged father, Ethan—an ex-convict and recovering addict living in California—learns of the incident...2024-10-0149 minRock Is LitGarth Risk Hallberg on the Power of Music in His New Novel, ‘The Second Coming’In this first installment of the Rock is Lit Season 4 Reading Series, Garth Risk Hallberg introduces us to his latest novel, ‘The Second Coming’, reading a powerful excerpt and shedding light on the book's evolution. He shares insights into how music, especially the music of Prince, is woven into the narrative and why it plays such a pivotal role.Set in the spring of 2011, ‘The Second Coming’ follows thirteen-year-old Jolie Aspern, who narrowly escapes a subway accident after trying to retrieve her phone. Her estranged father, Ethan—an ex-convict and recovering addict living in California—learns of the incident...2024-10-0149 minRock Is LitScott Michaels on the Murder of 'Rebel Without a Cause' Actor Sal MineoWell this is it, Lit Listeners: the Season 3 finale. Wyatt, the Rock is Lit mascot, and I are thrilled to have you with us as we wrap up another incredible season. We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to this semester’s amazing interns, Production Intern Cador Jones and Social Media Intern Jenna Rudolph, for their outstanding work. Best of luck in all your future endeavors, Cador and Jenna.To celebrate the end of Season 3 and gear up for an exciting Season 4 coming this fall, we're launching the Bill Hallberg Rock ‘n’ Roll Short Story Contes...2024-05-171h 01Rock Is LitExploring Jewish Identity, The Holocaust, and the Healing Power of Music in Jason Warburg’s Novel ‘Home Was a Dream’In Episode 51, Jason Warburg delves into the intricacies of his new novel, the third in his Tim Green series, ‘Home Was a Dream’, where themes of Jewish heritage, identity, and the haunting legacy of the Holocaust intertwine with the healing power of music. Jason shares insights into his personal connection to Jewish culture and history, revealing how these influences shaped the characters’ journeys in the novel. Through the lens of characters grappling with their Jewish identity, Jason explores the profound repercussions of the Holocaust on a generation haunted by loss and trauma. Against this backdrop, music emerges as a potent...2024-04-121h 07Rock Is LitExploring Real-Life Musician Disappearances with Nathan D. Duvall, Inspired by Jeff Jackson’s Novel ‘Mira Corpora’In Part 1 of Episode 50, we delved into the mesmerizing world of author Jeff Jackson and his acclaimed novel ‘Mira Corpora’, in which enigmatic underground rockstar Kin Mersey mysteriously disappears. Now, in Episode 50 Part 2, Nathan D. Duvall (host of the Lucid show on 103.3 Asheville FM) and this semester’s Rock is Lit intern, Cador Jones, join me to talk about actual musicians who, like the rockstar in Jeff’s novel, vanished without a trace, including Richey Edwards, Jim Sullivan, Connie Converse, Christina “Licorice” McKechnie, and more.PLAYLIST
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[Gui...2024-04-0456 minRock Is LitJeff Jackson on Music, Memory, and Myth in His Novel ‘Mira Corpora’In Part 1 of Episode 50, we delve into the mesmerizing world of author Jeff Jackson and his acclaimed novel ‘Mira Corpora’. Join us as we explore the intersection of music and literature, unraveling the enigmatic narrative of the book. From the mysterious disappearance of underground rockstar Kin Mersey to the surreal journey of the runaway teenage protagonist, we uncover the depths of this dark and compelling tale. Jeff shares his creative process, artistic influences, and the thematic underpinnings of his work. Get ready for a captivating discussion of music, memory, and myth as we examine the haunting landscapes of ‘Mira Corpor...2024-03-291h 13Rock Is LitFrom Sunset Strip to Supernatural: Staci Layne Wilson on The Ventures, The Manson Family, Her Famous Parents, and Her Horror Rock BooksIt may not be Halloween, but we’re getting our spooky grove on in this episode. Staci Layne Wilson joins me to talk about the fourth novel in her Immortal Confessions vampire series, ‘Rhapsody in Red’. ‘Variety’ labels Staci’s work as “MTV's Headbangers Ball meets Tales from the Crypt” and calls it “...perfect entertainment for anyone who's ever played ‘Stairway to Heaven’ backward to hear the mumbled phrase ‘Here's to my sweet Satan’.”We’ll also talk about Staci’s upbringing in 1970s and ‘80s Hollywood as the daughter of music legend Don Wilson of The Ventures and pinup model, actress...2024-03-151h 19Rock Is LitOklahoma Grooves: An Inside Look at ‘Live From Medicine Park’ with Constance SquiresIn this episode I’m joined by Constance Squires, author of the 2017 rock novel ‘Live From Medicine Park’.The story follows Ray Wheeler, who arrives in Medicine Park, Oklahoma, with the goal of filming a documentary about the comeback of Lena Wells, a singer whose career got derailed by a bad late-night TV appearance in the 1980s. Ray, known for his philosophy of non-involvement with his subjects, finds himself drawn into Lena's world as he begins to probe into her past. As Ray delves deeper into Lena’s story, he uncovers secrets surrounding her band mate Cyril and Lena...2024-03-021h 07Rock Is LitSonic Stardust: Journeying Through Time and Music with Kelley McNeil and Her New Novel, ‘Mayluna’I’m thrilled to welcome author Kelley McNeil to the podcast. Join us as we explore her latest novel, ‘Mayluna’, released in various formats today, February 1. Kelley takes us on a journey into the world of a fictional 1990s British alternative-rock band, their iconic lead singer, and a woman whose love played a pivotal role in shaping the music of a generation. Discover the intricacies of fate, regret, and the enduring power of love in the context of music.Special thanks to AAron Camaro, from Decibel Geek podcast, for lending his voice to the episode. AAron reads the syno...2024-02-011h 11Rock Is Lit‘Tonechaser’ Chronicles Part 1: Music Journalist Steve Rosen Talks About His Friendship With Eddie Van HalenWelcome to Part 1 of Episode 45, featuring Steve Rosen. Steve is a highly respected music journalist and author of more than 1,000 articles and seven books, delving into the lives of iconic figures like Jeff Beck, Prince, Bruce Springsteen, and Black Sabbath. His latest endeavor, ‘Tonechaser – Understanding Edward: My 26-Year Journey with Edward Van Halen’, was published in 2022. The book offers an intimate perspective on the guitar virtuoso and Steve’s friendship with him from 1977 to 2003. In the introduction to the book, Steve writes, “What you will read here is not a biography, a history, or an exacting chr...2024-01-2644 minRock Is LitNavigating the Musical Landscape of the 1960s with Frye Gaillard and His Book ‘A Hard Rain: America in the 1960s’Welcome back to another episode of Rock is Lit, the podcast where we dive into the powerful intersection of rock music, literature, and pop culture. Today, we’re stepping outside the realm of fiction as we embark on a fascinating journey into the 1960s with acclaimed author Frye Gaillard and his nonfiction book ‘A Hard Rain: America in the 1960s’, which captures the heartbeat of an era, an era that has inspired so many of the rock novels featured on the podcast.In Frye’s extraordinary book he not only delves into the tragic and hopeful narratives of civil...2024-01-191h 16Rock Is LitSoul Music and Southern Roots: Michael Parker On His Novel ‘If You Want Me to Stay’Welcome to a soulful episode of Rock is Lit. If you’ve got a hankering for that sweet soul music—the kind that echoes with the sounds of Otis Redding, Al Green, Sly & The Family Stone, and Aretha Franklin—then you’re in for a treat. My fellow Tar Heel native Michael Parker is here to talk about his novel ‘If You Want Me to Stay’, a story in which 14-year-old narrator Joel Dunn, Jr., takes us on a poignant odyssey. Joel, Jr., shares the heartfelt tale of salvaging his family in the aftermath of his mother’s departure and his father...2024-01-051h 11Rock Is LitCapturing the Legends: Photographer Neal Preston's Rock OdysseyHey, Lit Listeners, prepare for an epic journey into the heart of rock history with a living legend behind the lens—Neal Preston. In this exclusive Rock is Lit episode, we step into Neal’s unparalleled career spanning five decades. We talk about his background in NY and how he developed a love of music and photography, his unique style and philosophy as a photojournalist, his experiences working with Led Zeppelin in the hedonistic 1970s, his 50-year friendship with Cameron Crowe, and the stories-behind-the-story of ‘Almost Famous’.Also, get ready for a deep dive into Neal’s iconic pho...2023-12-221h 17
The Ugly American Werewolf in London Rock PodcastFirst Concert Memories #5: Jimmy Page & Robert Plant with Christy Alexander Hallberg of Rock is LitWe first met Christy Alexander Hallberg a couple of years ago while she was promoting her rock novel Searching for Jimmy Page. Since then we've become friends and she now hosts her own podcast, Rock Is Lit, about rock n roll fiction books. So we had to have her on First Concert Memories to talk about the first (and to this point, only) time she saw Jimmy play live when he teamed back up with Robert Plant on the 1998 Walking into Clarksdale Tour. The Wolf & Action Jackson saw Page & Plant together in Orlando in 1995 on the Un-Ledded...2023-12-011h 12
Rock & Roll NightmaresChristy Alexander Hallberg: Author of “Searching for Jimmy Page”Christy Alexander Hallberg, the author of a rock music-inspired novel called “Searching for Jimmy Page,” joins Staci to chat about her book, as well as her podcast, “Rock is Lit.” Christy gives fascinating details on traveling to the UK to research her book—she visited all the sacred grounds, from Headley Grange to Boleskine House—and how the Led Zeppelin song “Four Sticks” inspired her. She also talks about interviewing John Fogerty and recommends some of her favorite rock music novels (that are not “Daisy Jones and the Six”!).2023-11-1725 minRock Is LitRememberin' & Rockin' to the 1980s Cult Classic Film 'Eddie and The Cruisers' with Sherry ThomasIn this episode, my friend Sherry Thomas and I are talking ‘Eddie and the Cruisers’, the 1983 cult classic film about a fictional early 1960s rock ‘n roll band on the rise that virtually disappeared from the airwaves after their lead singer, Eddie Wilson, supposedly died in a car wreck following a dispute over the band’s experimental second album, which was never released. Almost 20 years pass, and Eddie and the Cruisers are back on the charts, thanks to a renewed interest in ‘60s pop culture and music, and a journalist decides to go on a mission to find out what reall...2023-10-191h 02Rock Is LitZeena Schreck shares her memories of her godfather, avant-garde filmmaker and occultist Kenneth AngerThis bonus episode is an addendum to Episode 6 on Zachary Lazar’s rock novel ‘Sway’, a story that brings together the early Rolling Stones, members of the Manson Family, and avant-garde filmmaker and occultist Kenneth Anger. In the last segment of that episode, Zeena Schreck shares her memories of her godfather Kenneth Anger and gives her insight into some of his work. This bonus episode features Zeena’s segment in isolation.Zeena Schreck (formerly LaVey) is an artist, musician, and Tibetan Buddhist yogini, as well as former High Priestess of the Church of Satan (founded by her late fat...2023-08-2544 minRock Is LitRex Weiner Talks ‘The (Original) Adventures of Ford Fairlane’, Lester Bangs, Nitrous Oxide, NYC & LA Music Scenes, & Throwing a Pie at One of The RamonesIn this episode we’re going back in time to talk about Ford Fairlane, a character created by Rex Weiner for a series of stories published in the late ‘70s in the now-defunct ‘New York Rocker’ and a second series published in the early ‘80s in the ‘LA Weekly’.The 1990 movie ‘The Adventures of Ford Fairlane’ starring Andrew Dice Clay is loosely based on the character Rex created.It wasn’t until 2018 that the New York and LA stories were finally published in their entirety in book form, entitled ‘The (Original) Adventures of Ford Fairlane’, and I’m jazzed that I ge...2023-07-081h 09Rock Is LitJason Warburg On His Rock Novel ‘Believe in Me’, Politics & Music, Rock Journalism, Cameron Crowe, Wampus Multimedia, & MoreIn this episode, Jason Warburg joins me to talk about his rock novel ‘Believe in Me’, a story in which young political operative Tim Green finds himself in the orbit of a super famous rock ‘n roll band. Jason and I talk about his experience working in politics and as a music journalist, the relationship between politics and music, Jason’s family background and the loss of his parents and stepfather and how that impacted him as a person and as a writer, and more. MUSIC IN THE EPISODE IN ORDER OF APPEARANCE:
No copyright...2023-06-271h 06Rock Is LitBen Arzate On His Novel ‘Music is Over’ & The Gerogerigegege, with David Novak On Japanese Noise MusicBen Arzate is in the cyber house to talk about his short novel ‘Music Is Over’, published by Malarkey Books in 2022. Malarkey describes ‘Music Is Over’ as “a picaresque surreal horror novel” that “imagines the lost years of musician Juntaro Yamanouchi [of the Japanese Noise band The Gerogerigegege]. It is weird, bizarre, violent, and surprisingly sweet.”If you’re into Japanese Noise, trains that lead to nowhere, industrial wasteland cities filled with strange doctors, mysterious foreigners, psychotic policemen, and unfriendly residents, this is the book and episode for you.If you don’t know much about this kind of m...2023-06-151h 10Rock Is LitDaniel Torday on His Novel ‘Boomer1’, Political Rants & the Deep Web, with Ty Gilpin of Unspoken Tradition on Bluegrass MusicIf your jam is Bluegrass music, revolutionaries, political rants, and the Wild West of the Internet (otherwise known as the Deep Web), you’re gonna love this episode. Daniel Torday is here to talk about his novel ‘Boomer1’, a story that follows Bluegrass musician, underemployed millennial, and now PhD in English, Mark Brumfeld, who channels his desperation by posting a series of online video monologues that critique Baby Boomers and their powerful hold on the job market. When the videos go viral, Mark loses control of what he began—with consequences that ensnare him in a matter of national security...2023-06-101h 26Rock Is LitBrett Marie (AKA Musician Mat Treiber) Talks About His Novel 'The Upsetter Blog', Working With His Wife Roxanne Fontana, & How Anton Newcombe Inspired His Main CharacterIn this episode, Brett Marie joins me to talk about his fabulous debut novel, ‘The Upsetter Blog’. Author John Lingan said of the novel, “ ‘The Upsetter Blog’ takes us back to the turn of the century, when the Internet was still a wilderness and ‘new media’ had not yet upended cultural coverage. [Brett Marie’s] finely drawn characters look to rock and roll for redemption, fame, love, and intimacy, caught between old ideas of stardom and new possibilities of communication. A roaring road-novel debut.”The literary alter ego of rock 'n' roll musician Mat Treiber, Brett Marie is a contributing...2023-05-261h 13Rock Is LitGarth Risk Hallberg On ‘City on Fire’, the New Apple TV+ Series Based On His Novel, Starring Chase Sui Wonders, Wyatt Oleff, Jemima Kirke, Nico Tortorella & Max MilnerGarth Risk Hallberg is my guest in this episode of Rock is Lit. Full disclosure, Garth is the son of my late husband, Bill Hallberg, who was also a writer and teacher. Garth is here to talk about the new Apple TV+ series ‘City on Fire’, which is based on his 2015 international bestselling novel of the same title.The first three episodes of this eight-episode music-driven mystery thriller premiere Friday, May 12, 2023. You can catch one new episode weekly through June 16, 2023.If you haven’t seen the show trailer or read the novel yet, here’s a very b...2023-05-121h 15Rock Is LitJessamyn Violet Talks About Her Debut Novel, ‘Secret Rules to Being a Rockstar’; ‘LA Weekly’ Culture & Entertainment Editor Lina Lecaro Dishes On the LA Music Scene in the ‘90sI’m excited to welcome acclaimed musician Jessamyn Violet to the podcast to talk about her novel, ‘Secret Rules to Being a Rockstar’, a gritty, glittery, queer YA debut about a teenage musician who jumps at a chance to play in her favorite rock band on their upcoming world tour, only to realize her heroes have their own agenda and might be leading her down a dark path. If you’re into the 1990s Los Angeles music scene, in all its glory and decay, you’re gonna love this novel and episode. Speaking of the 1990s LA music s...2023-04-141h 37Rock Is LitCheryl J. Fish On Her Novel ‘Off the Yoga Mat’, Yoga & Sex, Bob Dylan, & Y2K, With Lucas Hare On Bob Dylan in the Late ‘90s/Early 2000sWhat do yoga, the Y2K freakout, Finland, and Bob Dylan have in common? Cheryl J. Fish, that’s what. Cheryl brings them all together in her debut novel from Livingston Press, ‘Off the Yoga Mat’, set in that crazy year 1999, when everybody feared a looming mass technological meltdown and started filling their garages with buy-in-bulk toilet paper and miscellaneous canned goods (sounds familiar, doesn’t it?). Cheryl is here to talk about her novel.Later, my go-to Bob Dylan guru pal, Lucas Hare, co-host of the fabulous podcast Is It Rolling, Bob? Talking Dylan, drops by to talk...2023-04-071h 32Rock Is LitLance Olsen Talks About His Rock Novel, ‘Always Crashing in the Same Car: A Novel After David Bowie’, and Nick DeMatteo Does a Deep Dive Into David Bowie’s Berlin Trilogy AlbumsIf you’re a fan of David Bowie—be it Ziggy Stardust, Halloween Jack, The Thin White Duke, Major Tom, Aladdin Sane, and/or The Blind Prophet from the ‘Blackstar’ videos, or all of the above—you’re going to love this episode. Lance Olsen is here to talk about his latest novel, ‘Always Crashing in the Same Car: A Novel After David Bowie’, a story that fictionalizes the life of David Bowie from a wide variety of angles.In the last segment of the episode, singer, songwriter, music producer, and host of the Music is not a Genre podcast...2023-04-031h 38Rock Is LitRock is Lit Vault: Warm-Up to Rex Weiner Interview, Pleasant Gehman ReduxIn lieu of a regular episode this week, I’m coming at you from the Rock is Lit Vault. I’m excited about interviewing Rex Weiner, author of ‘The (Original) Adventures of Ford Fairlane’, tomorrow night (3/24/2023) for an upcoming episode of Rock is Lit. Since half of Rex’s Ford Fairlane stories take place during the early ‘80s punk rock scene in LA, I thought it would be fun to revisit my chat with Pleasant Gehman about that period. This outtake from my interview with Pleasant is from Episode 4 of Rock is Lit, which features Janet Fitch’s novel ‘Paint It Black’...2023-03-2322 minRock Is LitSarah Pinsker On Her Science Fiction Rock Novel, ‘A Song For A New Day’, and Nabil Ayers on DIY Music VenuesHello, Lit Listeners. If science fiction is your jam, this is the episode for you. Sarah Pinsker is here to talk about her sci fi rock novel, 'A Song For A New Day’, a story that takes place after a global pandemic makes public gatherings illegal and concerts impossible, hence the rise of DIY music venues.In the last segment, Rock is Lit veteran Nabil Ayers drops by to give me some insight into the world of DIY music venues. Nabil Ayers was also a guest on Episode 10, which you can listen to here. ...2023-03-161h 17Rock Is LitRock is Lit Vault: News and AnnouncementsI hope everybody’s doing well out there in podcast land. In lieu of a regular episode this week, I’m coming at you from the Rock is Lit Vault. I’ve got some news and announcements I wanted to share with you before we move on to the next full episode, which will drop next week.In this Rock is Lit Vault Bonus Episode, you’ll find the following info:· Previous Season Two Episodes Recap· What’s Coming Up in Season Two/Teasers· Jessamyn Violet’s Book Launch and Rock is Lit Episode· My...2023-03-0914 minRock Is LitRob Errera Talks About His Horror Rock Novel ‘Hangman’s Jam’ and Zeena Schreck Explores the Use of Music in Magic and Spiritual Practice“Some songs demand sacrifice,” Rob Errera writes of the title song in his novel ‘Hangman’s Jam,” a story that chronicles the rise of the band Allen Vent and The Strange Creations and the mysterious song that haunts and beguiles them. If you like your rock novels to come with a hearty dose of groupies, drug overdoses, sex tapes, and a side of murder, betrayal, and some freaky other-worldly creatures, you’re in the right place.Speaking of mysterious and powerful songs, Zeena Schreck joins me in the last segment of the podcast to talk about the power certai...2023-03-021h 22
The Talking Book PodcastSearching For Jimmy Page w/ Christy Alexander HallbergA conversation with Christy Alexander Hallberg. We talk about her new audiobook Searching For Jimmy Page, then listen to an excerpt narrated by Melissa Connell.
https://www.christyalexanderhallberg.com/searchingforjimmypage
"The unraveling of eighteen-year-old Luna Kane’s haunted past begins in the winter of 1988, when her dying great-grandfather, a self-proclaimed faith healer, claims he hears phantom owls crying in the night."2023-03-0130 minRock Is LitChris L. Terry, Author of ‘Black Card’, About A Mixed-Race Rap-Lovin’ Punk Rock Musician in the 2000s Struggling With His IdentityIn this episode, Chris L. Terry, who is both a writer and punk rock musician, does double duty as author and music guru. Chris and I talk about his novel ‘Black Card’, a story that follows a mixed-race punk rock musician and his struggles with identity. Chris and I get candid about race, how to pronounce certain naughty words, Hip-Hop, punk rock music, and even Confederate monuments.Per J. Ryan Stradal in ‘The Rumpus’: “Provocative, warm-hearted, and often hilarious, ‘Black Card’ tells the story of a biracial punk rocker searching for his place in a largely white world. He’s come...2023-02-231h 11Rock Is LitCelebration of the Audiobook Release of ‘Searching for Jimmy Page’, With Audiobook Narrator Melissa Connell and Dave Lewis, Led Zeppelin Super Fan, Expert, and Founder/Editor of ‘Tight But Loose’My award-winning novel, ‘Searching for Jimmy Page’, the first literary novel to feature Led Zeppelin and Jimmy Page, was published in paperback, hardback, and Kindle by Livingston Press on October 20, 2021. You can still get the Kindle version on Amazon, and the paperback is available on Amazon and your local indie bookstores.Now that the audiobook is out on Amazon, Audible, and iTunes, I feel like this journey I’ve been on with my book baby is almost complete. In this episode, listen to Chapter One, then join me as I chat up Melissa Connell about her exp...2023-02-161h 33Rock Is LitDaniel Paisner On His Novel ‘Balloon Dog’ & How The Stones Song “Satisfaction” Inspired It, & Brad Page Of I’m In Love With That Song Podcast Does a Deep Dive Into “Satisfaction”In this episode Daniel Paisner joins me to talk about his novel ‘Balloon Dog’, a story driven by a would-be writer protagonist who looks at the world through snatches of classic rock lyrics. The novel tells the story of a brazen art heist gone sideways and asks readers to consider what it means to leave a mark and what it takes to be swept up in the same currents that move the rest of the world.Later, Brad Page, host of I’m In Love With That Song podcast, another proud member of the Pantheon Podcast Network, drops b...2023-02-091h 33Rock Is LitMelissa Ragsly Talks Rock ‘n Roll Short Stories and AAron Camaro of Decibel Geek Podcast Talks Guns N RosesHello, Lit listeners. As you know, Rock is Lit is a podcast about rock novels. Well, in this episode, we’re going rogue. Melissa Ragsly is here to talk about the music-related stories in her short story collection, ‘We Know This Will All Disappear’. We’ll be name dropping folks like The Beatles, Metallica, FTD, Patti Smith, and Guns N Roses. Speaking of Guns N Roses, their song “Rocket Queen” is a major motif in the story “Mannequin,” so AAron Camaro, co-host of the Decibel Geek podcast, another proud member of the Pantheon Podcast Network, joins me in the last segme...2023-02-021h 42Rock Is LitEnter 'Searching for Jimmy Page' Audiobook Giveaway, Listen to an Excerpt of the Rock NovelHello, Lit Listeners!Here’s another news flash from the Rock is Lit Vault. On Thursday, February 2, 2023, Season Two launches with Melissa Ragsly, who wrote the short story collection ‘We Know All This Will All Disappear’, and AAron Camaro, co-host of Decibel Geek podcast, another proud member of the Pantheon family. Melissa and I talk about a few of the more music-centric stories in her book, then Aaron joins me in the last segment to dish about the Guns N Roses song “Rocket Queen,” which plays a major role in one of those stories.It's going to b...2023-01-2615 minRock Is LitTribute to Peter Cooper, with Frye GaillardEpisode 14 of Rock is Lit features Michael Amos Cody’s novel ‘Gabriel’s Songbook’, a story that follows starry-eyed Gabriel Tanner on his quest to strike it big as a singer-songwriter in Nashville in the 1980s.In the final segment of that episode, Peter Cooper and Frye Gaillard join me to talk about the real Nashville music scene in the 1980s to add real-world context to Michael's novel. Frye is an historian and author of such books as ‘A Hard Rain: America in the 1960s’, ‘The Southernization of America’, which he co-wrote with Pulitzer Prize-winner Cynthia Tucker, and ‘Watermelon...2023-01-1938 minRock Is LitSeason One Recap and Pamela Des Barres Full Video Interview IntroWe said goodbye to 2022 and Season One of Rock is Lit last week. To celebrate the coming of Season Two, here's a brief recap of Season One, a thank you to all the folks who helped make the podcast happen, intro to Season Two, and an intro to the full video interview I conducted with legendary groupie Pamela Des Barres for the Season One Finale/Episode 17. Use the link below to view the YouTube video. Happy New Year, Lit Listeners!YouTube interview with Pamela Des Barres: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JlutwO7WMzkRock...2023-01-0508 minRock Is LitRobert Duncan, Former Editor of ‘CREEM’ Magazine & Author of the Rock Novel ‘Loudmouth’, On Lester Bangs, Ron Wood & Keith Richards, Springsteen, & More!Hello, Lit Listeners. If you dig the crazy, down-and-dirty (and deafening), let-it-all-hang out, have-a-nice-day, far out 1970s, you’re in for a treat. Music journalist-cum-rock novelist Robert Duncan is here doing double duty as both author and music guru—because why wouldn’t he?—and he dishes on some folks whose records are in your collection. You DON’T want to miss this episode! EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:
The blurred lines between the novel ‘Loudmouth’ and Robert’s real life
Robert’s wild boy big brother—“the original rock ‘n roll guy”—Rusty
Scratch inspections and Robert’s friend with a specia...2022-12-221h 46Rock Is LitMichael Amos Cody, Author of 'Gabriel's Songbook', with Frye Gaillard and Peter Cooper, on Appalachian Music & Culture, MTV, & the Nashville Music Scene in the 1980sIn this episode we’re venturing inside the complicated world of the Nashville music biz. Michael Amos Cody joins me to talk about his novel ‘Gabriel’s Songbook’, which follows starry-eyed Gabriel Tanner on his quest to strike it big as a singer-songwriter in the Music City in the 1980s. In the final segment, Frye Gaillard and Peter Cooper drop by to talk about the real Nashville music scene in the 1980s. Frye is an historian and author of such books as ‘A Hard Rain: America in the 1960s’, ‘The Southernization of America’, which he co-wrote with Pulitzer Prize-wi...2022-12-081h 13Rock Is LitMichael Gaspeny, Author of 'A Postcard From the Delta', Talks About the Lore of Delta Blues, the British Blues Explosion, and Music PilgrimagesOn this episode of Rock is Lit . . .Michael Gaspeny and I talk about
Our experiences launching debut novels and the advice we’d give new authors who are about to launch their first books
The backstory that inspired Michael to write the novel ‘A Postcard From the Delta’
Blues as the main character in the novel’s religion and what the Blues means to Michael
When the Blues first grabbed Michael
How the British Blues Explosion of the 1960s helped white kids discover classic Blues musicians
The appropriation issue
Michael’s experience visiting Clarksdale, Mississippi in the late 19...2022-11-241h 09Rock Is LitRock is Lit Bonus Episode: Zeena Schreck on SpiritualityZeena Schreck, formerly LaVey, is an interdisciplinary visual and musical artist based in Berlin, Germany.Raised within the Church of Satan, she came to international prominence early in life as the organization's High Priestess and first public spokesperson, defending the Church in the 1980s during the infamous media-fuelled U.S. Satanic Panic. She resigned her position in 1990, severed ties with her father, Anton LaVey, and renounced Satanism and Western occultism to pursue her own religious path, which led to her becoming a practitioner and lineage holder of Tibetan Tantric Buddhism. In early October 2022, I had the...2022-11-1951 min
Set Lusting Bruce: The Bruce Springsteen Fan PodcastChristy Alexander Hallberg - writer, podcaster, teacher, music fanChristy Alexander Hallberg @ChristyHallberg is the author of the award-winning novel ‘Searching For Jimmy Page’, from Livingston Press. She is also the host of Rock is Lit: A Podcast About Rock Novels, from Pantheon Podcast Network. She joins Jesse today to discuss her music fandom, her book and her podcast. 2022-11-1847 minRock Is LitMichael Parker: His New Novel, Lead Belly, The 1970s, And MoreMichael and I talk about
the genius of Mick Taylor and Taylor’s short stint with the Rolling Stones
North Carolina barbecue vs. Texas barbecue
the image Michael saw one day while swimming that inspired his novel ‘I Am the Light of This World’
why the early 1970s was such an interesting time culturally and why Michael chose it as the backdrop for a big part of the story
the significance of the title of the novel
the North Carolina Piedmont Blues scene of the 1930s, the Folk Music revival of the 1960s, and Rev. Gary Davis and the art...2022-11-171h 13Rock Is LitRock is Lit Bonus Episode: Nabil Ayers on 'My Life in the Sunshine' and Rockin' With Joan JettEpisode 10 of Rock is Lit features Jennifer Haupt’s novel ‘Come As You Are’, a story set against the backdrop of the Seattle grunge scene of the early 1990s. Nabil Ayers, author of the memoir ‘My Life in the Sunshine’ and co-founder of Seattle’s iconic record store Sonic Boom, shares his memories of that pivotal moment in music history in the full episode. Here are two outtakes from my interview with Nabil, in which he talks about his new memoir about his efforts to connect with his father, the funk, soul, and jazz legend Roy Ayers, and Nabil’s experience m...2022-11-1014 minRock Is LitRock is Lit Bonus Episode: Uncut Charles R. Cross Interview About Kurt CobainEpisode 10 of Rock is Lit features Jennifer Haupt’s novel ‘Come As You Are’, a story set against the backdrop of the Seattle grunge scene of the early 1990s. Joining Jennifer and me on that episode to share their memories of that pivotal moment in music history to add real-world context to Jennifer’s novel are Nabil Ayers, co-founder of Seattle’s iconic record store Sonic Boom and author of the memoir ‘My Life in the Sunshine’, about his efforts to connect with his father, the funk, soul, and jazz legend Roy Ayers; and Charles R. Cross, author of the a...2022-11-1056 minRock Is LitRock is Lit Bonus Episode: Jennifer Haupt on Lost Dreams and the Publishing ExperienceEpisode 10 of Rock is Lit features Jennifer Haupt’s novel ‘Come As You Are’, a story set against the backdrop of the Seattle grunge scene of the early 1990s. In this outtake from that interview, I talk with Jennifer about lost and deferred dreams—for the characters in her novel and for herself—and the difference in her reaction to publishing her first novel and this one. Listen to Episode 10, then check out other bonus material in the Rock is Lit Vault, including my full, uncut interview with Charles R. Cross about Kurt Cobain, and outtakes from my intervie...2022-11-1011 minRock Is LitJennifer Haupt, Charles R. Cross, and Nabil Ayers Talk Nirvana, Kurt Cobain, and Seattle in the '90sJennifer Haupt is here to talk about her new novel, ‘Come As You Are’. Set against a backdrop of Seattle in the early '90s, ‘Come As You Are’ is a compelling love story and family drama that addresses the question: Can we alter our dreams and stories from the past to create a better future for our children?In the second half of the show, we’re joined by two giants of the real Seattle grunge world: music journalist Charles R. Cross, author of the award-winning 2001 biography on Kurt Cobain, ‘Heavier Than Heaven’, and Nabil Ayers, co-founder of Sea...2022-11-101h 18Rock Is LitDana Spiotta and Lucas Hare Talk Radical Activism, Political Fugitives, Obscure Albums and Films, Beach Boys, Bob Dylan, and MoreIn this episode of Rock is Lit, Dana Spiotta joins me to talk about her National Book Award-nominated novel ‘Eat the Document’. If your jam is ‘70s and ‘90s radical activism, political fugitives (think The Weather Underground), lost and obscure albums (such as The Beach Boys’ ‘Smile’), bootleg recordings, underground filmmaking, and a ton of classic rock, you’re gonna love this novel.Later, Lucas Hare, co-host of the Is It Rolling, Bob? Talking Dylan Podcast, joins me to share his thoughts about Bob Dylan’s unreleased documentary called ‘Eat the Document’, which is where Dana’s novel gets its title....2022-11-031h 15Rock Is LitTony DuShane Talks Growing Up a Jehovah's Witness, Famous Rocker Jehovah's Witnesses, Working with Eric Stoltz on the Movie Adaptation of his NovelHIGHLIGHTS:Drinks With Tony podcast hostTony DuShane and I talk about his novel ‘Confessions of a Teenage Jesus Jerk’, what it was like for him growing up a Jehovah’s Witness, his worst experience going door to door as a Jehovah’s Witness, how/why Tony left the religion, how music and literature saved his life and the role both play in his novel, Tony’s experience working on the film adaptation (directed by Eric Stoltz). Because Tony has written so much about music as a journalist, he is his own music guru in this episode. We...2022-10-271h 19Rock Is LitFormer Led Zeppelin PR Man and Vice President of the Band's Swan Song Records, Danny Goldberg, Talks Working with Zeppelin in the 1970sHIGHLIGHTS:In this bonus segment from Episode 7 of Rock is Lit, Danny Goldberg, former President of Atlantic Records and manager of Nirvana, as well as PR man for Led Zeppelin then Vice President of Swan Song records at the height of the band’s fame, shares his thoughts about some of the nonfiction books on Led Zeppelin by music journalists, including the infamous ‘Hammer of the Gods’ by Stephen Davis. He also mentions journalists the band favored, such as Ritchie York and Chris Charlesworth. Finally, Danny shares some anecdotes about a young Cameron Crowe and his association with L...2022-10-2020 minRock Is LitCelebration of the 1st Birthday of 'Searching for Jimmy Page' & Insider Scoop on Working With Led Zeppelin from Danny GoldbergHIGHLIGHTS:In this episode of Rock is Lit, some special guests and I celebrate the first book birthday of my rock novel, ‘Searching for Jimmy Page’. First, my close friends and colleagues Margaret Bauer, Randall Martoccia, and Liza Wieland interview me about my novel. Later, former President of Atlantic Records, manager of Nirvana, PR man for Led Zeppelin then Vice President of Swan Song records, Danny Goldberg, joins the podcast to talk about his experiences working with Led Zeppelin in the 1970s.Check out the Rock is Lit Vault for bonus material from this episode, inclu...2022-10-201h 28Rock Is LitMac B. and Action Jackson from The Ugly American Werewolf in London Rock Podcast Talk Rock Movie SoundtracksEPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:“It’s all happening!”If it sounds like there’s a party going on, you’re right, and you’re invited to join the fun on this special episode of Rock is Lit. My rock ‘n roll bruthas Mac B. and Action Jackson, from The Ugly American Werewolf in London Rock Podcast, and I talk about what makes a great movie soundtrack and our criteria for choosing the movies/soundtracks that made each of our top-four lists. We discuss how these films are timeless but also capture a moment in time.Then we do a d...2022-10-061h 37Rock Is LitRock is Lit Vault Bonus Episode, Pleasant Gehman on 1980s L.A. PunkHIGHLIGHTS:Pleasant Gehman is a Hollywood rock ‘n’ roll icon. During the 1970s, she was one of the first punks in Los Angeles, documenting the scene she helped create in her fanzine ‘Lobotomy’,which led to writing for many of the top mainstream rock publications. In this outtake from my interview with Pleasant for the Rock is Lit episode that features Janet Fitch’s rock novel ‘Paint it Black’, Pleasant talks about some of the hottest punk bands in L.A. in the early ‘80s, when ‘Paint it Black’ is set, including The Cramps, The Weirdos, The Germs, B...2022-09-2916 minRock Is LitChris Charlesworth Talks About His Novel and Elvis Presley, Stephanie Myers Talks About Real Kidnapping Plots Against ElvisIn this episode of Rock is Lit, Chris Charlesworth talks about Elvis’ Gold Records album, when Chris’ dad took him to see The Beatles in England in 1963, seeing The Who with Keith Moon on drums, what he’d ask Elvis if he could, one of the inspirations for his novel 'Caught in a Trap: The Kidnapping of Elvis'—the novel 'The Fan Club' by Irving Wallace, published in 1974—and the research Chris did on Elvis for his novel, mixing fact with fiction, the significance of the year 1975 for Elvis and in 'Caught in a Trap', Elvis’ relationship with his manager Colone...2022-09-2257 minRock Is LitJeff Jackson Talks Rock Novel Definitions, His Novel, and His Band Julian Calendar--Nathan D. Duvall Talks Real Instances When Bands Have Been Attacked by Fans on StageIn this episode of Rock is Lit, I’m thrilled to welcome novelist, playwright, visual artist, and songwriter Jeff Jackson, author of the novel 'Destroy All Monsters: The Last Rock Novel', which centers around the killing of bands as they perform on stage by members of their own audience. Later, Nathan D. Duvall, host of the Lucid show on 103.3 Asheville FM, joins the podcast to talk about real-world examples when this kind of violence has erupted at live shows. Highlights:Jeff and I talk about some amazing musicians/bands, including Wire, The Rai...2022-09-1558 minRock Is LitSuzi Quatro Talks About 'Happy Days', Rockin' in the Male-Dominated 1970s, Her Rock Novel--Katherine Turman Talks About Suzi's Place in Rock 'n Roll HistoryIn this episode of Rock is Lit, Suzi Quatro talks about her favorite 'Happy Days' episode, being a Detroit girl, Bobby Darin, seeing the psychedelic ‘60s band Blues Magoos when she was 15 years old, learning a lot about being an entertainer by seeing Wayne Newton perform, what Suzi would ask Elvis if she could, loving Bob Dylan's music, Jackie Collins’ advice to Suzi about writing a novel, how Suzi feels about gender and how she dealt with sexism in the music business, the first time she saw Elvis on TV, the most irritating encounter she’s had with a fan, S...2022-09-1555 min
Bookin’201--Bookin’ w/ Christy Alexander HallbergThis week, host Jason Jefferies is joined by Christy Alexander Hallberg, author of Searching for Jimmy Page, which is published by our friends at Livingston Press. Topics of discussion include Led Zeppelin as a rite of passage, Four Sticks, omens, Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz, Jimmy Page, Robert Plant's sandwich, Hammer of the Gods, Liv Tyler, and much more. Copies of Searching for Jimmy Page can be ordered here from Explore Booksellers!
2022-09-1218 min
#badasswritersS3E12 || Music and Literature || Christy Alexander HallbergToday's episode is all about the blend of music and literature, what these two mediums have in common, and why rock fiction should be more of a thing! Then, Kat chats with author Christy Alexander Hallberg about:
her book, Searching for Jimmy Page
how we use myth and art to create our own personal narratives
the power music has to create emotional experiences
the inspiration behind the book
how grief and a pilgrimage led to her writing Searching for Jimmy Page
how in-person location research can help sharpen the details in the writing
letting the characters tell the...2022-09-0650 minRock Is LitTrailer“I really tried to create a band that I would love, if they were real”— Taylor Jenkins Reid, author of Daisy Jones & The SixFiction writers have long been seduced by the anarchy, defiance, and raw power of rock ‘n roll, creating stories about music, the people who make it, and the characters who love it with the same intensity as the most ambitious concept albums. But until Rock is Lit first aired in September 2022, there had never been a podcast devoted to this art form—the rock novel—and the show remains a singularity...2022-09-0106 min
Rock in RetrospectInterview with Christy Alexander Hallberg (Searching for Jimmy Page)Christy Alexander Hallberg recently published her novel Searching for Jimmy Page and we asked her to come on to discuss her book. She talked to us about her literary influences, favorite music memories and her writing process. We also have an in-depth discussion of some of the major characters and themes in Searching for Jimmy Page. If you haven't read it yet, it's a spectacular debut novel and we can't wait to read more of Christy's work in the near future. You can buy a copy of Christy's book on her website which includes links to major...2022-06-1559 min
The Rock is George PodcastEpisode 46: Interview with Christy Alexander Hallberg, author of Searching For Jimmy PageGeorge Dionne interviews Christy Alexander Hallberg, author of Searching For Jimmy Page (A Novel). Book synopsis: The unraveling of eighteen-year-old Luna Kane’s haunted past begins in the winter of 1988, when her dying great-grandfather, a self-proclaimed faith healer, claims he hears phantom owls crying in the night. “Them owls, like music. Can you hear the music?” he implores her in his final moments, triggering Luna’s repressed memory of her dead mother’s obsession with Jimmy Page, Led Zeppelin’s legendary guitar wizard. Desperate to learn the truth about her mother’s suicide, to tease fact from family lore to weave her own...2022-05-0328 min
The Ugly American Werewolf in London Rock PodcastUAWIL #67: Searching for Jimmy Page author Christy Alexander Hallberg InterviewThe Wolf & Action Jackson grew up worshipping Jimmy Page. So did Christy Alexander Hallberg and that love of Jimmy and his music, especially during his days in Led Zeppelin, inspired her novel Searching for Jimmy Page. Set in North Caroliina in 1988, we follow the story of teenage Luna who is coming to grips with her identity. Of course 1988 marked the release of Jimmy's only real solo record, Outrider, which made a big impression on Christy. We explore the story of Luna, her travels to England to find Jimmy and our experiences with Outrider, Led Zeppelin & all things Jimmy Page...2022-03-101h 20
The Ugly American Werewolf in London Rock PodcastSearching for Jimmy Page author Christy Alexander Hallberg InterviewThe Wolf & Action Jackson grew up worshipping Jimmy Page. So did Christy Alexander Hallberg and that love of Jimmy and his music, especially during his days in Led Zeppelin, inspired her novel Searching for Jimmy Page. Set in North Caroliina in 1988, we follow the story of teenage Luna who is coming to grips with her identity. Of course 1988 marked the release of Jimmy's only real solo record, Outrider, which made a big impression on Christy. We explore the story of Luna, her travels to England to find Jimmy and our experiences with Outrider, Led Zeppelin & all things Jimmy Page. Christy...2022-03-101h 17
I'm In Love With That Song PodcastThe Albums That Made Us – Led Zeppelin "IV" with special guest Christy Alexander HallbergWe're back with another "Albums That Made Us" episode; this time my guest is author Christy Alexander Hallberg, whose new novel Searching For Jimmy Page is a must-read for any Led Zeppelin fan. On this episode, Christy shares how discovering Led Zeppelin IV was a life-changing moment, how the music has brought comfort over the years, and inspired her book. We also discuss one of my first album purchases, Queen's Day At The Races.Buy Christy's book here: https://www.christyalexanderhallberg.com/This show is one of many podcasts on the Pantheon podcast network -- TH...2021-11-1550 min
Author2AuthorAuthor2Author with Christy HallbergBill welcomes debut novelist author Christy Hallberg to the show. Christy Alexander Hallberg is the author of the novel SEARCHING FOR JIMMY PAGE, from Livingston Press. She is a Teaching Professor of English at East Carolina University, where she earned her BS and MA in English. She received her MFA in Creative Writing (Fiction) from Goddard College. She is Senior Associate Editor of North Carolina Literary Review. Her short fiction, creative nonfiction, book reviews, and interviews have appeared in such journals as North Carolina Literary Review, The Main Street Rag, Fiction Southeast, Riggwelter, Deep South Magazine, Eclectica, Litro magazine, STORGY...2021-11-0232 min
Booked On Rock with Eric Senich"Searching For Jimmy Page"/Christy Alexander Hallberg [Episode 30]"Searching For Jimmy Page" is the fictional story of Luna Kane. The unraveling of eighteen-year-old Luna’s haunted past begins in the winter of 1988, when her dying great-grandfather, a self-proclaimed faith healer, claims he hears phantom owls crying in the night. “Them owls, like music. Can you hear the music?” he implores her in his final moments, triggering Luna’s repressed memory of her dead mother’s obsession with Jimmy Page, Led Zeppelin’s legendary guitar wizard. Desperate to learn the truth about her mother’s suicide, to tease fact from family lore in order to weave her own personal narrative, Lun...2021-10-1741 min
The Heart of Markness Led Zeppelin PodcastSearching For Jimmy Page - An Interview With Christy Alexander HallbergI talk with author Christy Alexander Hallberg about her novel Searching For Jimmy Page, which I've read and is wonderful. She talks about visiting Headley Grange, Bron Yr Aur, and other meccas for Zep fans, and how they colored her character Luna's odyssey. Seriously, this book is awesome.2021-09-0343 min
Indie Book TalkTurning Memoir Into Fiction with Christy Alexander HallbergWhat started as a personal memoir transformed into Christy Alexander Hallberg's first novel. Hear how she did it and the real-life events that set the story in motion on this episode of Indie Book Talk.
As well as being the author of the upcoming Searching for Jimmy Page (Livingston Press, 2021), Christy is a teacher of literature and writing at East Carolina University.
Christy's Recommended Reading List for Aspiring Authors:
Hills Like White Elephants by Ernest Hemmingway
Tony Morrison
Jhumpa Lahiri
Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo
*Note, the quote, "The first draft is ju...2021-08-1222 min
MicroEmmanuel x Hallberg x RansomePrecious Emmanuel is a law student living in Kano, Nigeria. Christy Alexander Hallberg serves as Senior Associate Editor of North Carolina Literary Review and editor of Flash Friday USA at Litro Magazine. Nayyir Ransome writes things and hopes people like it, they’re really bad at professional bios though. Links and Info: Precious Emmanuel “Life ImitatesContinue reading "Emmanuel x Hallberg x Ransome" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-01-1316 min