Martin Popoff has written around 8000 record reviews, which is more than anyone in the history of music journalism. He has authored approximately 130 books. He was the editor-in-chief of Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles for 14 years, and he has contributed to top shelf publications like Revolver, Guitar World, Goldmine, and many more. Martin has also been a regular contractor to Banger Films, working on documentaries like Rush: Beyond The Lighted Stage, the 11-episode Metal Evolution series, and the 10-episode Rock Icons series for VH1 Classic. Martin also has his very own podcast called History In Five Songs with Martin Popoff, and is part of The Contrarians YouTube channel.
In this interview, the main focus was on Martin’s latest book called Guns N’ Roses At 40, which is now available through publisher Motorbooks (an imprint of the Quarto Group). Martin tells us how he comes to choose what he writes about and how the research is done. He discusses the history of GN’R, from the club days to Chinese Democracy and beyond. There is even talk about Martin’s latest Iron Maiden Bible, some of his past books, and we even touch on his artwork.
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Hello everyone! My name is Scott Itter, but some know me as Dr. Music. I am a music journalist and photographer out of the Chicagoland area, and I have been in practice for over 20 years. I grew up in the 70’s with two big brothers that showed me all kinds of rock and roll. As I grew older I ventured out into different genres like jazz, funk, folk, and whatever else I could wrap my ears around. As I read every liner note and every Circus and Hit Parader like they were the Old and New Testament, I came to realize that I just love sound and appreciate all the people that create it.
I later became a stay-at-home dad and started honing my writing and photography skills to keep my mind from turning into mashed peas. My kids are now adults, my mind is only slightly mushy, and I am thrilled to have the honor of presenting my work to you!
