Totally Wired - the Rise and Fall of the Music Press

Totally Wired provides a comprehensive retelling of the music press's history in both the US and UK, spanning from the 1950s to the 2000s and encompassing various genres such as rock 'n' roll, mod, glam, punk, pop, reggae, R&B, and hip-hop. Author Paul Gorman delves into the origins of individual magazines, from their roots in Tin Pan Alley to the rise of prominent monthlies like The Face and Mojo. 

Through extensive interviews with key figures, Gorman uncovers the influential roles of writers such as Lester Bangs, Caroline Coon, and Nick Kent in shaping the careers of artists like David Bowie, the Clash, and Led Zeppelin. Additionally, he sheds light on the entrenched sexism and racism that plagued the industry and highlights the often overlooked contributions of women and individuals from marginalized backgrounds. The result is an immersive narrative filled with tales of raw talent, unbridled ambition, and fierce rivalries, making Totally Wired a rollercoaster and riveting read.

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Who wrote it?
Paul Gorman

How does it come?
Paperback, 20 x 13cm approx. 384 pages.