Some irrefutable truths about rock and roll


1) Robert Johnson invented rock and roll, and is the rightful King of it. Elvis Presley's title should be amended to "Poster Boy of Early Rock and Roll."

2) Jeff Buckley's version of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" is infinitely better than the Rufus Wainwright version and is the definitive version of the song.

3) The Rolling Stones were and are the most overrated band in the history of rock and roll.

4) If it's too loud you are, indeed, too old.

5) The Stone Roses' self-titled debut is the best debut album ever in the history of ever.

6) John Mayer needs to stop that right now.

7) A good song is a good song, whether it's played on an Audiovox tape deck and a single factory speaker in a 1976 Buick Skylark or a complete Linn Klimax system.

8) A couple of Les Pauls, a Fender Precision bass, and a decent set of drums sound every bit as good as the most disciplined orchestra.

9) There is absolutely nothing wrong with having the occasional urge to crank "Hungry Like the Wolf" from time to time, so long as it doesn't become a habit.

Did I forget anything?

*yes, I realize everyone is entitled to his or her own opinion, and this is meant to be tongue-in-cheek.
theraiguy
I don't see rock musicians as all that different in basic makeup from the great classical composers, or most people in general. Many had their "demons" and music helped to "exorcise" them. Different times, different places, different experiences is most of the difference, case to case. Some are able to overcome their demons and adversity better than others. All, in different ways.

In the end, its a balancing act. I am grateful for the fairly stable upbringing and life I have had and that I have not had to experience the evils to the extent perhaps that some like Shubert have, like the evils of war and battle directly. That I am sure of. My musical tastes would be different I am certain under different circumstances. I understand completely how ones choice in music can help provide balance in life. I only wish more were in a better position to be able to absorb many of the negative or destructive things society throws our way without harm. It goes way beyond merely rock or music alone, that's for sure.
Schubertmania,
I'm sorry you couldn't just remain 16, I agree it would have been the best thing in your situation .
The thing about rock about is that it's designed to make you look inward, navel-gaze if you will, old men do not warn of it
because they wish to be young again, that is a terrifying thought to anyone with any wisdom at all, but because they fear for you, knowing that to look inward is the worst possible road in life.
Schubert makes many clear and articulate points on many threads and they are generally respected and well received.

Making ignorant and blanket "right and wrong" statements about a genre of music so varied, pervasive, and intertwined with nearly every aspect of global culture will diminish his otherwise valid and welcome observations on audio.

As for callous responses from me and some others...well...act like a troll, get piled on.
"May you grow up to be righteous
May you grow up to be true
May you always know the truth
And see the lights surrounding you
May you always be courageous
Stand upright and be strong
May you stay forever young
Forever young, forever young
May you stay forever young"