Book Review: “Raised on Radio” by Paul Rees – An Xperience Column

Book Review: “Raised on Radio” by Paul Rees – An Xperience Column – by Rob Skane.

I loved this book and was completely hooked from the start. Paul Rees offers us an oral history of prime album-oriented rock. “Raised on Radio” has contributions from various members of bands like Boston, Journey, Foreigner, Toto, REO Speedwagon, Styx, Billy Squier, and several others. No punches are pulled, and no f*cks are given – especially by Steve Lukather – who we love. “Raised on Radio” details the very creative times of FM radio from 1976 until 1986. It’s a page turner without a doubt.

“Raised on Radio” can be looked at as an arena rock version of “Please Kill Me.” There’s very interesting information as to how some of the bands that shaped us were formed and also ultimately dissolved. The constant stream of quotes almost reads, at times, like a clinician’s notepad after a very intense talk therapy session. You laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll wonder what Dennis DeYoung was thinking with the “Kilroy Was Here” album – I mean, he’ll tell you, but you’ll still wonder.

There was a lot of pressure to keep on making hit records, constant touring, and at times, no money. How can you sell a million records and still be broke? Read this book, and you’ll find out. Here’s a hint – can you say recoupable expenses? I know you can … The music detailed in “Raised on Radio” is all incredible. When you read this, you might go back and listen to some of the records from that period. And then you’ll realize that Steve Lukather – who we love – probably played guitar on half the albums that you’ve ever owned. There’s one thing that totally blew me away – the Billy Squier LP “Don’t Say No” is a stupendous record!! It went platinum times three, that’s 3 million, kids – if you’re keeping score and some of us do, so shut up …

“Raised on Radio” is important because it tells the story of how music and the business of music evolved between 1976 and 1986. Some might even say the biz devolved during that period. This book gives us an insight into how and why MTV became what it became. MTV broke a lot of bands; style over substance, some might say. Bands from this era changed things. Let’s take the invention of the power ballad, for instance. I mean, every band had one back then, and come to find out – every rose really does have its thorn, who knew?! The music is still relevant, the song structures are air-tight, and the performances are often unmatched. While you’re reading “Raised on Radio,” take some time and listen to the albums as they’re being referenced in the book, and you’ll see what I mean. Paul Rees has helped to chronicle the soundtrack of our youth, and we should be grateful for that. “Raised on Radio” is available right now at a book seller near you. And remember kids, don’t stop believing.

 

 

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