Connecticut Rock 'n' Roll: A History - Softcover

A new book by Anthony Renzoni, "Connecticut Rock 'N' Roll: A History" (The History Press), is packed with mini-biographies of stars who were born here, such as John Mayer and Karen and Richard Carpenter, as well as archival photos of Connecticut concerts that have become legendary, including the 1967 New Haven show in which Jim Morrison of The Doors was arrested in the middle of the performance for "public indecency" (i.e., using obscenities). The News Times

"Nuggets like these and other music memories are part of Tony Renzoni's new book, "Connecticut Rock 'n' Roll: A History." 'I began to research rock 'n' roll especially for its influence on our society. And what began as a hobby turned into a passion for me," said Renzoni."" The Register Citizen

"In his book, Renzoni listed some of the local talent that appeared on Connecticut Bandstand: Debbie and the Darnels, the Academics, Roger Koob and the Premiers, the Pyramids, and Ron and His Rattletones.

In addition to chronicling Connecticut's significant contribution to rock 'n' roll, a prime reason for Renzoni writing this book was to shine a light on those often-forgotten regional bands. "There have been so many talented artists in Connecticut but they weren't given their due. They were neglected by rock historians."

A 224-page paperback listed for $21.99, Renzoni's book includes many evocative and historic black-and-white photographs." Connecticut Magazine

Long neglected in the annals of American music, the Nutmeg State's influence on the history of rock'n'roll deserves recognition. Connecticut's musical highlights include the beautiful harmonies of New Haven's Five Satins, Gene Pitney's rise to fame, Stamford's the Fifth Estate and notable rockers such as Thurston Moore of Sonic Youth, Rivers Cuomo of Weezer and Saturday Night Live Band's Christine Ohlman. Rock Hall of Famers include Tina Weymouth and Chris Frantz of the Talking Heads and Dennis Dunaway of the Alice Cooper Band. Some events became legend, like Jimi Hendrix's spellbinding performance at Yale's Woolsey Hall, Jim Morrison's onstage arrest at the New Haven Arena and teenage Bob Dylan's appearance at Branford's Indian Neck Folk Festival. With in-depth interviews as well as rare, never-before-seen photos, author Tony Renzoni leads a sonic trip that captures the spirit and zenith of the local scene.