The other day I was reminiscing about the “Ripper” days of Judas Priest. In the late 90s, Tim “Ripper” Owens joined the band, replacing singer Rob Halford after leaving. But Ripper only stayed with them 7 years. So why did Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens leave Judas Priest? Here’s what I know from being a long-time fan: … Read more
Jimi Hendrix is, without question, one of the greatest musical artists the world has ever known. Even his bio in The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame states he is “…arguably the greatest instrumentalist in the history of rock music.” So what made Jimi Hendrix so good at guitar? Here’s what I know being a … Read more
The impact John Lennon made on the music world is evidenced by the 350+ songs that he wrote and recorded during his career. There is no question that he was an incredible musician, but Did John Lennon have perfect pitch? Here’s what I know from being a long-time Beatles fan: John Lennon did not have … Read more
Everyone thinks of Rob Halford when they think of Judas Priest. But singer Tim “Ripper” Owens temporarily replaced him from 1996 until 2003 and was much younger with a similar voice. So is Tim “Ripper” Owens a better singer than Rob Halford? Here’s what I think, having listened to both: Technically speaking, Owens is a … Read more
Fans of the Ramones know that Johnny Ramone was the king of the barre-chord, playing downstroke chords at breakneck speed. But starting with their 4th album, guitar solos began appearing. Did Johnny Ramone play the guitar solos? Here’s what I know from being a fan for more than 40 years: Johnny Ramone did not play … Read more
Panic! at the Disco is one of the most successful emo bands to come out over the past 15 years. But there have also been significant changes in its lineup since its inception. Specifically, fans often want to know why did Ryan and Jon leave Panic! at the Disco? Here’s what I’ve learned: Jon Walker … Read more
Coldplay emerged in an era when many bands were breaking up over money fights within the bands. Coldplay is undeniably one of the most successful musical artists from the past 20 years. So how do Coldplay split their money? Coldplay’s songwriting credits are divided up 40/20/20/20 with singer and lyricist Chris Martin getting the majority … Read more
In 1985, in the middle of a successful career, David Lee Roth quit Van Halen. He was replaced by Sammy Hagar, but Roth returned to the band in 2007. So naturally, fans want to know, did David Lee Roth ever sing Sammy Hagar songs? Here’s what I know from seeing Van Halen shortly after Roth’s … Read more