Author Archives: Bob Ruggiero

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About Bob Ruggiero

I am a passionate fan of classic rock (and related music) with 35 years experience writing about it for daily/weekly newspapers and magazines. I am also the author of the interview anthology "The Classic Rock Bob Reader" and "Slippin' Out of Darkness: The Story of WAR." Both available on Amazon!

Ann Wilson’s Heart of Rock and Roll

Posted on October 8, 2017 by Bob Ruggiero

    More than four decades into her career as one of rock’s premier and most distinctive vocalists, Ann Wilson recently wrapped up she’s never attempted before: an extended solo tour. “We have a very lean, mean band, nothing extra. … Continue reading →

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Justin Hayward’s Days (and Nights) in White Satin

Posted on August 1, 2017 by Bob Ruggiero

  Of all the hits that the Moody Blues have charted over the past 50+ years of existence, the one big calling card for the English band is probably “Nights in White Satin.” Atmospheric, classically orchestrated, mysterious, and featuring dreamy … Continue reading →

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Gregg Rollie’s Journey Back to Santana

Posted on May 30, 2017 by Bob Ruggiero

On the day of Prince’s death last year, television was awash in old interviews, concert clips, and videos. During a 1999 chat with Larry King on CNN, the Purple One talked specifically about three of his biggest musical influences: Stevie … Continue reading →

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The Yardbirds Still Got It Live If You Want It!

Posted on February 20, 2017 by Bob Ruggiero

Coming out of the suburbs of London in 1963, the quintessentially English Yardbirds had one of the more interesting career trajectories of bands in terms of sound. They hatched as a mostly hardcore blues-based group, specializing in covers like “Good … Continue reading →

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Paul Rodgers Still Traveling with Some Bad Company

Posted on January 11, 2017 by Bob Ruggiero

One of the more egregious omissions from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (now that Chicago, Yes, ELO, and Journey are in) has got to be Bad Company. Here’s an interview I did with lead singer Paul Rodgers last … Continue reading →

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News flash! Immigration policy targets classic rockers!

Posted on December 19, 2016 by Bob Ruggiero

As always, Stephan Pastis, creator of my favorite comic strip, “Pearls Before Swine” gives us a wry comment on classic rock. But does this mean that foreign governments will move to keep out Boston, Kansas, Chicago and even…America and their music … Continue reading →

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Steve Lukather on Toto, Boz, Ringo, and…”Africa.”

Posted on May 13, 2016 by Bob Ruggiero

  This is a piece I did last summer on Toto and Steve Lukather – just in time as they are about to embark on another jaunt across the country!  ‘Tis the season of summer, which also means it’s the time … Continue reading →

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John Oates Still Has a Lot on His “List” To Do

Posted on April 1, 2016 by Bob Ruggiero

John Oates has a lot to love about his career these days. Long after their records made regular appearances on the Top 40, Hall & Oates maintain an enthusiastic fan base and sell out shows. Last year saw the release … Continue reading →

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Randy Bachman is STILL Takin’ Care of Business

Posted on February 18, 2016 by Bob Ruggiero

In his career as a co-vocalist/guitarist/songwriter for not one but two pretty successful classic rock bands (The Guess Who and Bachman-Turner Overdrive), Randy Bachman has sold tens of millions of records, sold out concerts, and hit the top of the … Continue reading →

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Aerosmith’s Joey Kramer: Pounding Skins and Coffee Shots

Posted on January 18, 2016 by Bob Ruggiero

There is no more quintessential “Boston” rock band than Aerosmith. Since their formation some more than 45 years ago (!) they’ve proudly stood for everything Beantown, and even have an official city historical plaque in front of their old living/rehearsal … Continue reading →

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