Nick DeRiso is UCR's assistant managing editor, and author of 'Journey: Worlds Apart.' He has been named columnist of the year five times by the Associated Press, Louisiana Press Association, and Louisiana Sports Writers Association, and previously oversaw a daily newspaper section that was named Top 10 in the nation by the AP.
Nick DeRiso
30 Years Ago: XTC’s Struggles Continue on Lush, Ignored ‘Nonsuch’
Virgin Records' not-very-helpful ad slogan put the era in perspective: "Still Not on Tour (Cheer up, there is a new album)."
May 2022 New Music Releases
One of the biggest hitmakers of the '80s is back.
40 Years Ago: ‘Fridays’ Stumbles to an Unfortunate End
Move to prime time doomed this looser, edgier alternative to 'Saturday Night Live.'
72 Musicians Who Are Totally Lying About Their Names
Their names are forever etched in our collective musical memory – or are they?
Bonnie Raitt, ‘Just Like That … ‘: Album Review
She's given us a powerful testament not just to those who have gone, but also to the steadfast who remain.
40 Years Ago: Clash Tour Postponed After Joe Strummer Vanishes
He was having a typical rock star's day, even doing a promotional interview for upcoming shows in Scotland.
30 Years Ago: The Cure Get Their ‘Wish,’ Then Immediately Regret It
Third consecutive U.S. platinum album came with a price.
50 Years Ago: Electric Light Orchestra Debut, Then Splinter
Issues included costs, the sound and the fragile creative partnership between Roy Wood and Jeff Lynne.
40 Years Ago: Toto ‘IV': Beyond ‘Africa’
Their lone chart-topper remains a concert sing-along staple and their signature song. But there's more to the LP.
40 Years Ago: Rolling Stones Punch Back With ‘Hang Fire’
Single boasted a hard-eyed relevance that was worlds away from their most recent work.
April 2022 New Music Releases
Record Store Day is returning to full throttle.
40 Years Ago: ‘Beatles Movie Medley’ Cashes in on Two Crazes
Single was deleted just two years later and has never reappeared on compact disc, vinyl, download or streaming platforms.