Gliders Over Hollywood: Airships, Airplay, and the Art of Rock Promotion (2025)
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PAUL RAPPAPORT enjoyed a storied thirty-three-year career at Columbia Records where
he played a pivotal role in the careers of Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Pink Floyd, The
Rolling Stones, Billy Joel, Journey, Elvis Costello, Judas Priest, Alice in Chains, and
many more. As senior vice-president of rock promotion and marketing he became regarded
as the most renowned rock promotion man in the USA.
Gliders Over Hollywood: Airships, Airplay And The Art Of Rock Promotion captures the magic times of the rock record business from the late 60’s through the 90’s in an entertaining “you are there” style, featuring not only the artists but many colorful behind the scenes characters—disc jockeys, promoters, managers, and record company personnel who made it all happen.
This dynamic memoir also reveals never-before-heard secrets of promotion and event style marketing that turned the music industry on its head. From creating the Pink Floyd airship to sword-fighting with Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden, receiving a guitar lesson from Keith Richards, and playing live onstage at London Arena with Pink Floyd, it’s a book packed full of extraordinary adventures with some of the biggest names in rock.
Additional Bio information
While at Columbia Paul also co-created and executive produced the Emmy Award-winning music television series A&E’s Live by Request and the popular live radio series The Columbia Records Radio Hour. Upon leaving Columbia Paul formed his own production company, Tres Hombres, and for many years wrote the ‘Backstage Access’ blog for Classics Du Jour. He was the lead guitarist in the pioneering LA punk band Mogan David & His Winos. Gliders Over Hollywood: Airships, Airplay, And The Art Of Rock Promotion is his first book. He lives in Port Washington, New York.
For reviews, media interview highlights, and contact information go to: glidersoverhollywood.com
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