Ryan Reed is a freelance music/culture writer/editor. He also contributes to Rolling Stone, Relix Magazine, Revolver, Pitchfork, and other publications.
Ryan Reed
August 2020 Recap: COVID Controversies and Concert Innovation
A drive-in concert film and the opening of a socially distanced venue were among the month's biggest headlines.
How Rush’s Debut LP Cover Perfectly Matched Their Raw Songs
Paul Weldon's minimal design conveyed the primal power-trio energy of band's 1974 album.
Mountain’s Leslie West Dies: Rockers React
Dee Snider, Sebastian Bach, Neal Schon and others shared condolences following news of the guitarist's death.
Eddie Van Halen and Prince Gear Stolen From Storage Locker
Items include Marshall cabinets reportedly used by Van Halen on '80s tours and by Prince on '90s studio recordings.
Watch Mr. Bungle Cover Van Halen’s ‘Loss of Control’
Experimental rock/metal band tackled 'Women and Children First' song during Halloween virtual show.
David Lee Roth Includes Five New Songs in New Online Comic Book
'The Roth Project' features previously issued song "Somewhere Over the Rainbow Bar and Grill."
How Iron Maiden Made Eddie Even Creepier for ‘The X-Factor’ Cover
"That cover was an effort at bringing some palpable reality to the otherwise more fantasial illustrative style that preceded," says art director Hugh Syme.
Eddie Van Halen Left Behind ‘Close to a Million CDs’ of Music
In 2008 interview, guitarist noted his studio archives include “boxes and boxes and boxes" of material.
Rush’s Neil Peart Celebrated in New Illustrated Quote Book
Project, out in 2021, pairs drummer and lyricist's "words and musings" with black-and-white illustrations.
Eddie Van Halen Dies: Rockers React
Former bandmate Sammy Hagar wrote that he's "heartbroken and speechless" after guitarist's death from cancer.
Metallica Album Art: The Stories Behind 16 Famous LP Covers
Swirls of sperm and blood, an armless mannequin, a magnetic grave — the band has always experimented with its designs.
Rush’s Geddy Lee Isn’t Dead, Just Trending on Twitter
“Even I gulped when I saw I was trending," the bassist writes. "But I asked my dogs, and apparently I’m a bit boring but otherwise fine."