Dave Whitaker is the author of The Top 100 Songs of the Rock Era, 1954-1999 and No One Needs 21 Versions of “Purple Haze”…And Other Essays from a Musical Obesessive. He maintains a website (DavesMusicDatabase.com), blog, and Facebook page (all music related) with followers in more than 40 countries.
Columns
Wednesday, April 18 2012
Record Store Day: Spend Your Money on Music — It's Better Than Therapy
Huddled behind the counter sat a thin-faced, sullen-looking guy hidden behind a pair of round, John Lennon-esque sunglasses hanging on the bridge of his nose.
Monday, April 2 2012
When Politicians Hit Wrong Notes
From Reagan in the '80s to Limbaugh in 2012, Republicans have an uncanny knack for linking themselves to musicians who don’t support them. Just ask Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, and John Mellencamp.
Monday, March 5 2012
I Heard You Missed Us (Says Van Halen and Many, Many Others) -- We're Back!
The David Lee Roth-fronted Van Halen returns after a 28-year absence. Who else has made fans wait that long? Quite a few, it turns out.
Wednesday, January 18 2012
Gleeks and Beliebers Rejoice: In Defense of Pop
Pop music makers like Rihanna, Justin Bieber and Katy Perry may get the kiss off from critics, but really, what's the harm in getting your pop groove on to their style of music?
Wednesday, November 23 2011
On Making that Holiday Music List and Checking It Twice
It's that time of the year, again. Music fans are making their lists of what they hope to find wrapped in pretty paper at Christmas, and music publications are making their lists of what should be on those lists. Now, I have something to say about lists.
