Monday, April 20, 2009

Back when RS was relevant

To mark the shutdown of Rolling Stone's San Francisco office -- there were only three employees, and two will be laid off -- The Chron offered this semi-obit on Saturday.

The magazine began its irreverent life in San Francisco some 42 years ago, and quickly became the chronicle of the counter-culture. Within a few years, it became a pivotal voice for everything from rock and roll to politics, boosting the careers of Hunter Thompson, Tom Wolfe, Ben Fong-Torres and a host of others who were attracted by the ability to write long, take chances and create their own style.

Go here for a quick backgrounder on a glimpse of why the mag mattered and what we lost when the book went mainstream. bk

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Umm, when will the entire pointless magazine go out of business?

tk said...

Who is a more imp[ortant and innovative journalist than the king of Gonzo??

Catherine Ramirez said...

Aw crap! I was hoping to work there!

Cat R said...

"In subsequent years, Rolling Stone has been criticized for losing its edge and identity, as it sought a younger audience with shorter stories and more coverage of mainstream bands and celebrities."

Very true....
However, there are a lack of bands and venues now to harbor such local bands and up and comers as well.