Episode 459 – Van Halen Author Steve Rosen, Cassettes Making A Comeback, And A New Manufacturing Home For Audio Gear

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Steve Rosen - Tonechaser Edward Van Halen book

My guest this week is Steve Rosen, who’s an esteemed rock journalist who’s written for Guitar World, Guitar Player, Rolling Stone, Playboy, Classic Rock, among others, as well as books on Jeff Beck, Free/Bad Company, Black Sabbath, Bruce Springsteen, and Prince.

His latest book is titled Tonechaser – Understanding Edward: My 26-Year Journey With Edward Van Halen, and looks at his long friendship with the guitar god from before he was famous until his death.

Steve spent many hours with Edward at his own Hollywood Hills guesthouse, up at Van Halen’s 5150 studio, on airplanes, in cars, and even jamming with Ed on several occasions.

During the interview we spoke about meeting Edward Van Halen before he was famous, jamming with the master, how he was misunderstood, his multiple personalities, going with him to NAMM shows, and much more.

I spoke with Steve via Zoom from his home in Los Angeles.

On the intro I’ll take a look at how cassettes are making a comeback again, and MI and audio manufacturing looking for a new home.