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 a Real-Life Comet Inspired Rush’s ‘Vapor Trails’ Cover
The story of its fiery artwork — like the album itself — involves tragedy, emotional healing and a bit of magic.
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 New Drummer Neil Peart Helped Spark ‘Fly by Night’ Art
Lyricist's love of birds spawned the 1975 LP's simple yet memorable cover.
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.
Rush’s Understated ‘Hold Your Fire’ Cover Hides a Big Surprise
For band's 1987 LP, art director Hugh Syme saved his vivid juggler design for the gatefold package.
Paul McCartney Ranks Ringo Starr Among Top Three Rock Drummers
The former Beatle lists a trio of percussive giants in an interview with Howard Stern.
Sammy Hagar and the Circle Prep New ‘Lockdown 2020′ LP
Check out new cover of David Bowie's "Heroes" from a project that also includes updates of songs by Van Halen, AC/DC and others.
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.
Alice Cooper Previews New Album With Outrageous Cherry Cover
"Our Love Will Change the World" appears on singer's upcoming 'Detroit Stories' album.
Queen’s ‘News of the World,’ Freddie Mercury Get New Funko Series
Two of the products draw from singer's famous stage looks.
How Rush, Tom Petty and Others Reacted to John Lennon’s Murder
In the immediate aftermath of his death, major artists scrambled to address the horror in some fashion — musically, verbally or through the press.