Here's all the latest book buzz and documentary news you don't want to miss! Projects from The Beatles, Bachman Turner Overdrive, The Tragically Hip, Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band and Elton John to name a few are featured on this month's BONUS EPISODE. Plus, your chance to win the new Rush book "Rush at 50!" Support the show email Big Ric…

Is there really anything more to learn about John Lennon and Yoko Ono? Mind Games the book answers that questions with the inclusion of never before seen essays, documents, hand written lyrics, and over 750 photos. This definitive exploration is made up of Lennon and Ono's thoughts during the making, producing, and releasing of the album, plus cont…

The oddest, interesting, quirky, unique rock n roll book I have ever read. EVER? Yes! 1967: How I Got There and Why I Never Left by Robyn Hitchcock is a delightful read that takes you back to a special time in rock n roll history. Hitchcock writes his life story from his early teens persona as he discovers the life altering power of rock n roll. Su…

This book is a treasure. Author Paul Zollo got a chance in 2004 and 2005 to sit and talk with Tom Petty, discussing his life and music. This book is a record of these conversation. We are so lucky to have a document like this that so deeply explores not only Tom Petty's craft, but the many chapters of his life and career. Support the show email Big…

The latest news from Alex Van Halen's memoir "Brothers" plus news on projects from Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen, Rush, Yoko Ono and Paul McCartney to name a few. Catch up on all the book buzz and documentary news for the month of September! Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rocktalkstudio.comBy Your Host: Big Rick

This book was a little outside of the usual rock n roll books I review. But I took a chance. And because of the unique storytelling and interesting personal path author Ann Powers took to tell the story, I found myself engaged throughout. This is not a Joni Mitchell biography. This is the life of Mitchell questioned, examined, and presented with th…

The iconic music doc and album, Joe Cocker's Mad Dogs and Englishmen, gets a well deserved follow up in this new documentary "Learning To Live Together: The Return of Mad Dogs and Englishmen" 50 years later the Tedeschi Trucks band put together a massive tribute to the Mad Dogs and Englishmen legacy, reuniting 12 member of the original band to play…

Is the Stone Pony the most iconic rock n roll bar in America? I dive into the oral history of this still standing Asbury Park New Jersey landmark that uses quotes from Bruce Springsteen, Steven Van Zant, Patti Smith, Zack Wylde, Tom Morello and a cast of a hundred more artists to tell this tale. Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rocktalkstud…

There is only one movie of this immense caliber that was inspired by songs that served as the soundtrack for the movie. And there was only one Prince. This beautifully put together coffee style book does the legacy of the Purple One justice by leaving nothing left to explore about the groundbreaking Purple Rain album and movie. Support the show ema…

David Lee Roths' crazy manic muse is unmatched in rock n roll. There are very few who can keep up to his always on personality and this book does it best to track down anyone who tried. This episode digs into the DLR Book - How David Lee Roth Changed The World by Darren Paltrowitz. Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rocktalkstudio.com…

One of the greatest concerts of all time that most know very little about. This new doc, Revival 69 - the Concert That Rocked The World, brings unprecedented live footage and a story like no other to finally expose this amazing moment in rock n roll history. This episode also includes all the latest rock n roll book buzz and documentary news on pro…

Chris Stein tells the other side of the Blondie story in his new memoir. Gritty New York City tales from the 70's and 80's bring you right into the CBGB scene. This episodes also includes book and doc news about new projects featuring John Lennon and Yoko Ono, Eric Clapton, Chuck Berry, The Doors, and Melissa Etheridge to name a few. Support the sh…

Stevie Van Zant Disciple documentary needs over two hours to tell the story of one of rock's most accomplished careers. Guest appearances by Paul McCartney, Jackson Browne, Peter Wolf, and of course Bruce himself take this doc over the top. It's one not to miss. This episode also includes book and doc news about projects featuring The Grateful Dead…

For 13 days he was a Beatles. He actually saved the Beatles first world tour. He was 24 years old. And then he was gone. And most people don’t even know his name. How is it possible that drummer Jimmie Nicol could simply vanish after playing with the Beatles? The new book "The Beatle Who Vanished" finally solves the mystery of what happened to Nico…

King Curtis played with Buddy Holly. Jimi Hendrix joined King's band. He opened for the Beatles at Shea Stadium. One of his best friends was Duane Allman. There is a ton of rock n roll tales told in the new book Soul Serenade: King Curtis and his Immortal Saxophone. I am really glad I looked passed King Curtis's R&B and Jazz resume because there wa…

I already saw the Peter Jackson masterpiece “Get Back” why should I watch the film “Let It Be?” “Let It Be” the 1970 film has been remastered and is finally released in it’s original state, I look at it’s significance and give it a rating I have never given any documentary I have ever reviewed in the year in a half of the Rock Talk Studio podcast. …

Anita Pallenberg was a major influence on the Rolling Stones; so much so that it jeopardized her career, family and life. I explore the depth of her story in the new doc Catching Fire. Plus, big news on three new documentaries just announced featuring Led Zeppelin, Los Lobos, and Little Steven Van Zant. Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rock…

“Carlos” the documentary delivers a look at one of rock’s greatest guitarist. How personal does it get, is it deep enough? And yes, the Woodstock experience is explained. Plus! Details on a new Grateful Dead book -easily the most unique book I have ever read about the band. And news on upcoming projects from The Rock n Roll Nightmare series, John L…

Here’s the latest news about projects on Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, The Beach Boys, Bob Marley and the sequel to a 1984 rock n roll movie classic. This is the bonus episode, a continuation of the conversation about all the latest news to get fired up about. If you’re looking for more news and recommendations on the latest rock n roll books and d…

20 female rockers tell their war stories about the music industry and what they used to overcome every possible roadblock. Plus all the book buzz and doc news including a review of the most disturbing rock n roll book I have ever read! Books and Doc reviewed, previewed, and recommended: Books- She's a Badass: Women in Rock Shaping Feminism by Kathe…

You might not know the players, but you have definitely rocked out to the records they played on. The Immediate Family documentary pulls the curtain back to expose who was responsible for a lot of that 70’s and 80’s sound. There was a huge (the biggest of the year so far) announcement of a new memoir that is coming out in October. Find out about th…

One of rock’s most endearing personalities Geddy Lee, tells the story of one of rocks best three-piece bands. But, will a non-Rush fan find value with this book? The review looks at all sides of what Geddy’s book has to offer and gives up a surprising recommendation. Also included in this episode is all the latest buzz about whats new and what has …

What was the best rock n roll book of 2023? How about the best rock n roll documentary? Found out what came in as the best of the best, in the first annual Rock Talk Studio awards show. Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rocktalkstudio.comBy Your Host: Big Rick

Springsteen chose to pursue the release of the Nebraska album over Born In The USA. How did he talk his record label into that? And why, after all these years, no one has told the story of this dark masterpiece. And, could this be one of the best books of the year? Also included in this episode, are the monthly previews, reviews, and recommendation…

What happens when someone spends 20 years performing Led Zeppelin concerts note for note and then Jimmy Page walks in the door and sits down? This one-of-a-kind documentary about Mr. Jimmy, is this month’s spotlight review. Also included in this episode are the monthly previews, reviews, and recommendations which include a look at an over 500 page …

U2 is in the Sphere, they released a new record, Bono’s memoir is out, what else is there left to do? How about a rock doc? This month’s spotlight review looks at the documentary Bono and The Edge Sort of Homecoming with David Letterman. Plus, rapid fire recommendations on six other don’t miss titles. Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rockta…

Why did David Bowie's Moonage Daydream documentary take seven years to complete? Being the first authorized release from the Bowie estate, it has to be worth it right? I look at this documentary from all different angle and from all type of fans viewpoints to determine if it's recommended. This episode also preview and reviews six other titles and …

Spotlight on Lucinda Williams' raw memoir, “Don’t Tell Anyone The Secrets I Told You.” Plus RTS' latest rock n roll books and documentaries recommendations featuring titles from Allman Brothers, Bob Dylan, and Black Sabbath, Carlos Santana, Hipgnosis, and Imagine Dragons. Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rocktalkstudio.com…

New York times best-selling author, Alan Paul, joins me to discuss his new Allman Brothers book "Brothers and Sisters." We also touch on The Grateful Dead, Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Rolling Stones, Billy Graham, Cameron Crowe and a few other artists that play a part in this challenging chapter in Allman Brothers history. Support the show email Big Rick a…

Mysteries in The Music: Case Closed uncovers the greatest mysteries in rock n roll. Bob Dylan, Elvis Presley, Nirvana, The Beach Boys, and The Traveling Willburys are a few names that get their case files opened, examined, solved, and closed by the rock 'n' roll detective, author Jim Berkenstadt. Check out the books cover artist Zina's breath takin…

Jimmie and Stevie Ray Vaughan documentary, "Brothers in Blues," features guest appearances by Eric Clapton, Billy Gibbons, Jackson Browne, and Nile Rodgers. It's touted for featuring never-before-told stories behind their music. Does it live up to the hype? Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rocktalkstudio.com…

Who are the Secret Stars of rock 'n' roll? In this podcast, I look at how Author Matt Berenson makes a strong detailed case for 10 indie rock bands that, once dissected, might just leave you with a bunch of new favorite bands. Have a question or comment? E-Mail: info@rocktalkstudio.com Follow me on Instagram, Facebook @ Rock Talk Studio Thanks for …

The captivating story of how the greatest live album ever recorded (yeah I said it!) The Allman Brothers at Fillmore East, came about. Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rocktalkstudio.comBy Big Rick

Bono claims this book is one story; I totally disagree. This book if full of many stories, all well-written in a fashion unique to the rock 'n' roll memoir world. Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rocktalkstudio.com

The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Oasis, Elton John, and more talk about the world-famous Abbey Road recording studio. What more could you want out of a rock doc? Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rocktalkstudio.comBy Big Rick

Guns and Roses, The Cult, Motorhead, Velvet Revolver- Matt Sorum not only drummed for these bands, but he also just barely survived partying with them. Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rocktalkstudio.comBy Big Rick

What’s all the hub bub about this long awaited and much talked about release of one of Creedence’s last and most heralded live shows? Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rocktalkstudio.comBy Big Rick

This is not a rock and roll book, this is not a rock and roll documentary, and this is not a rock and roll movie. But it’s so rock and roll I just had to do a show on it. Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rocktalkstudio.comBy Big Rick

Van Zandt really surprised me with this book. I dare to say, it’s a one of a kind. This guy is so much more than a Springsteen sidekick and a Sopranos consigliere. Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rocktalkstudio.comBy Big Rick

Super fans of Cheap Trick need to check this out. It’s a blow-by-blow of the early years leading up to the live Budokan breakthrough. But what about the casual fan? Is this 500-page book worth the time? Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rocktalkstudio.comBy Big Rick

Yes! Finally, some Randy Rhoads love. Not a lot out there on Rhoads, who raised the stakes for rock guitarists the world over, so it was great to see this career-spanning documentary. But did it do his legacy justice? Support the show email Big Rick at: info@rocktalkstudio.comBy Big Rick

Is this the holy grail of rock and roll memoirs? Is this even a rock and roll memoir? In this episode, we toss that, and so much more, around. I mean, come on! It’s Paul McCartney we’re talking about here- of course there’s more to talk about when we get into a deep conversation about this 900-page masterpiece. Support the show email Big Rick at: i…

You can subscribe to The Charles C. W. Cooke Podcast using the following links: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-charles-c-w-cooke-podcast/id1647660323 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0oXcNGZPF7iMP8dotIqQq2 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c176f47f-6b05-4b1e-8f66-325d7cbd167f/the-charles-c-w-cooke-podc…

Charlie says goodbye to Mad Dogs and Englishmen, and hello to his new solo show.By Charles C. W. Cooke