Ryan Reed is a freelance music/culture writer/editor. He also contributes to Rolling Stone, Relix Magazine, Revolver, Pitchfork, and other publications.
Ryan Reed
How Drinking Brandy Inspired Rush’s ‘Grace Under Pressure’ Cover
When Hugh Syme learned the title of Rush's 10th LP, he immediately translated those words into colors.
Hear Eddie Van Halen Play On Newly Unearthed Jimi Hendrix Cover
Guitar virtuoso joins keyboardist David Garfield on "If 6 Was 9" in newly unearthed, remastered track.
How Rush Wound Up With a ‘Marquee’ Cover for ‘2112’
"I look back on it as being pretty formative, pretty primitive," says art director Hugh Syme. "But I realize that I somehow intuitively tapped into my conversations with [Neil Peart] about the arc of his story."
Wolfgang Van Halen Sets First Mammoth WVH Show
Former Van Halen bassist's new band will make stage debut at fest scheduled for October 2021.
Neil Peart’s ‘2112’ Drum Kit Heading to Auction
Drummer-lyricist also played Slingerland set on 'Fly By Night' and 'Caress of Steel.'
How Rush Wrangled Rabbits for Quirky ‘Presto’ Cover
Art director Hugh Syme talks to UCR about the prog-rock trio's playful cover of the 1989 LP.
Wolfgang Van Halen Opens Up About Late Father’s Health Battles
Lung cancer and brain tumor were among issues Eddie faced.
How Tom Petty Caught ‘Full Moon Fever’ With Jeff Lynne: Exclusive Book Excerpt
New book focuses on singer-songwriter's relationship with Los Angeles, including the numerous collaborators he found there.
Why Rush’s Minimalist ‘Signals’ Cover Earned an ‘Irate’ Reaction
The cover of Rush's ninth LP was so uncharacteristically simple and dry, the band's manager was apparently puzzled to the point of anger.
Why Tom Petty’s Band Initially Hated ‘Mary Jane’s Last Dance’
"What’s funny is that when Tom wrote this song, when he first showed it to me, the chorus was, 'Hey, Indiana girl, go out and find the world,'" says Mike Campbell.