July 3, 2008Let's hear it for the bands!Hey, everybody. Tomorrow's Riffs is about how July 4 is the one day out of the year when people can't avoid live music. I've written a lot about the struggles of live-music venues over the years and the difficulties bands have finding lucrative gigs. DJs, iPod-docking stations and satellite radio have replaced bands at social gatherings. People don't hire bands for parties and dances like they used to. May 8, 2008Miley Cyrus, Disney and a half-nekkid duck in this week's Riffs columnRalph is out today, and I can't think of anything witty to write -- especially given that Ralph already opened with this killer: Holy Hannah Montana! Miley Cyrus has ... um, shoulders. And a back. Wow! Who knew? Apparently, Disney didn't. You'd think a company that's allowed a cartoon duck to waddle around pants-less for nearly 75 years wouldn't let a bare shoulder ruffle its feathers. Read the rest of it here, and drop us some feedback. April 18, 2008Rock 'n' roll R.I.P.Hey y'all, In today's Riffs, I suggest that rock 'n' roll is dead. Actually, I don't suggest it, I state it. Wimpy indie-rockers, Madonna in the Rock Hall of Fame, Mariah Carey surpassing Elvis ... if that's not an obituary, what is? Let me know what you think. April 11, 2008Riffs: Pitchfork is now big in biz of music TVThe site is credited with boosting the careers of independent artists that include Sufjan Stevens, Arcade Fire, Grizzly Bear, Clap Your Hands And Say Yeah, Feist and other performers either ignored by or defiant toward major record labels. If you haven't heard of any of those folks, I sympathize. Being over 30 stinks. Now an established brand, Pitchfork is branching out in the biz. Site traffic hasn't been growing lately, the backlash against wimpy indie-rockers who make albums in their parents' basements has crested and other media, including other 'zines and satellite radio, have usurped some of Pitchfork's authority and coolness. It's also become lampoonable, which is what happens when you become a brand. |
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