Dizzy O'Brian

The Beatles Through the Window Pane So I’ve told my story up to when I went off to the Peabody Conservatory of Music in Baltimore after graduating from Arcadia High in California. How I was still basically a classical music snob but now pretending to be ‘cool,’ by getting high and acting like I dug rock music. Basically, I chose the Peabody because it was about as far away from Arcadia and my parents as I could get, but it didn’t occur to me then that Baltimore was as far away from Arcadia as you could get but in a way that involved much more than physical distance. Think about it for a second. Arcadia, at that time, was as middle class, white breadish as you could get. It was only a generation prior to mine that a law against black people being out after dark was enforced there. Contrast with Baltimore; predominantly black, traditional home of the Underground Railroad, home of John Waters, H.L. Mencken and Edgar Allen Poe. None of this did I know until I arrived there. Upon my arrival...

Giants of Sound: Exploring the Greatest Rock Music Bands and Their Roots Rock music. The very name conjures images of electric guitars, pounding drums, rebellious attitudes, and anthems that resonate across generations. From smoky bars to stadium stages, rock bands have shaped popular culture, challenged societal norms, and given voice to the angst and hopes of millions. But how did this electrifying genre begin, and which rock music bands stand tall as the greatest of all time? Let's dive in. From Blues and Gospel to a Roar: The Birth of Rock Music Bands The seeds of rock and roll were sown in the rich musical soil of the United States, primarily in the post-World War II era.  A potent mix of blues, gospel, country, and swing jazz, with a healthy dose of rebellion, coalesced to form something entirely new. The Blues Foundation: The raw emotion and soulful expression of blues artists like Robert Johnson and Muddy Waters laid the melodic and lyrical foundation. Blues' characteri...

The Roaring Seventies: A Look at the Iconic Rock and Roll Bands of the 70’s The 1970s were a wild ride for music, a period of experimentation, innovation, and excess. While disco and punk were vying for dominance, rock and roll, in all its various forms, held its own, fueled by the energy and talent of iconic bands who left an indelible mark on music history. From arena-filling anthems to blues-infused riffs, the rock and roll bands of the 70’s were a vibrant tapestry woven with diverse sounds and unforgettable personalities. Who Were These Rock Gods? The 70s saw the rise (and sometimes fall) of a plethora of legendary rock bands. Here are just a few of the titans who ruled the decade: Led Zeppelin: These British behemoths were arguably the biggest rock band of the decade, known for their blues-based hard rock, mystical lyrics, and Robert Plant's iconic vocals. Tracks like "Stairway to Heaven" and "Whole Lotta Love" became instant classics. The Rolling Stones: A...

The Rock Band from the 80’s: From Stadium Anthems to Synthesizer Dreams. The 1980s. A decade of big hair, neon colors, and, of course, groundbreaking music. While the rebellious spirit of rock and roll had been established in the 1960s, the rock band from the 80s saw the genre explode in a kaleidoscope of subgenres, each pushing boundaries and reflecting a rapidly changing world. Forget the simple blues-based riffs of the 60s; the 80s were about bombastic anthems, soaring vocals, and a healthy dose of technological innovation. So, who were the titans of this era? Let's dive in: Giants of the Arena Rock Stage: Bon Jovi: Known for their catchy melodies and anthemic choruses, Bon Jovi dominated arenas worldwide with hits like "Livin' on a Prayer" and "You Give Love a Bad Name." They were the epitome of stadium rock, combining heartfelt lyrics with a polished, accessible sound. Guns N' Roses: A stark contrast to the clean-cut image of Bon Jovi, Guns N' R...

Beyond the Mainstream: Diving into the World of Alternative Rock For those weary of the predictable sounds of pop radio, a thrilling alternative exists: alternative rock. More than just a genre, it's a movement, a spirit of rebellion, and a diverse tapestry of sonic experimentation that has captivated audiences for decades. But what exactly is alternative rock, and why does it continue to resonate? The term "alternative rock" emerged in the 1980s as a catch-all phrase for bands that didn't fit neatly into the existing categories of mainstream rock. These artists often operated outside of the major label system, carving out their own niches through independent record labels, college radio stations, and relentless touring. Think of it as the cooler, edgier cousin of mainstream rock, one that wasn't afraid to wear its influences on its sleeve, whether they stemmed from punk, new wave, hardcore, or even folk. I did a previous post on alternative rock that explored ho...

Artist Spotlight/Robert Gavin After years away from the stage, Robert Gavin is making a triumphant return to his artistic roots with the debut of his first solo album, "One Thousand Letters to My Best Friend," set to be released on Valentine's Day.  Gavin's musical journey began in the 90s as a member of Outlaw Posse, a pioneering boy band that also included David Faustino. He further cemented his influence on the music scene by co-founding Balistyx, a groundbreaking hip hop club in Hollywood. While he found success as an entrepreneur with TicketZoom, the desire to create his own music remained a constant undercurrent. Now, Gavin is ready to share the music that has been brewing within him for years. "One Thousand Letters to My Best Friend" is a deeply personal project, co-written by Gavin and brought to life with the help of an impressive roster of producers including Manuel Olsen, Akron, Jeremih, Chris Brown, Diddy, Trey Songz, Rich the Kid, Desiigner, and...

Rocking the Charts: The Legendary Music Rock Groups You Need to Know About Embark on a musical journey through the annals of rock history as we delve into the realm of legendary music rock groups that have shaped the very essence of this genre. From iconic bands that defined eras to hidden gems waiting to be discovered, this article is your ultimate guide to the must-know rock groups. Prepare to be swept away by the electrifying sounds and timeless hits that have rocked the charts and captured hearts across generations. Whether you're a seasoned rock aficionado or a budding enthusiast, there's something for everyone in this sonic adventure. Get ready to crank up the volume, feel the adrenaline, and immerse yourself in the world of rock legends that continue to inspire and enthrall music lovers worldwide. Join us as we celebrate the innovators, the trailblazers, and the game-changers who have left an indelible mark on the history of rock music. The origins of rock music and its ...