Harold Bronson Says Legendary Martin Scorsese Almost Directed the Monkees

Harold Bronson is one of the co-founders of Rhino Records, which grew from very small beginnings into a highly-respected reissue record company.

His new book Time Has Come Today: Rock and Roll Diaries 1967-2007 contains concert accounts, historical events and meetings with many noted hitmakers with fascinating details that have never before been made public.

For example, did you know that the legendary Martin Scorsese was considered as the director of the Monkees 1968 film Head? Can you even begin to imagine what that might have looked like? That's right along the somewhat incongruous lines of the Jimi Hendrix Experience opening for the Monkees (briefly) on their 1967 summer tour.

The earliest releases from Rhino were novelty and comedy records, with a number of compilations curated by Dr. Demento. Gradually, the label turned to reissues of classic 1960's rock and roll such as the much-lauded Nuggets series (originally released by Elektra Records).

The classic Rhino Records touch meant getting as close to either the original multi-track tapes or first generation masters as possible, and combining an improved sound with previously unreleased photographs and expanded liner notes. Probably the most successful off those efforts was the reissue of the Monkees catalogue in the 1980's and 1990's that coincided with a 20th anniversary reunion tour and subsequent endeavors by various configurations of the original quartet.

Eventually, the label evolved into releasing new music as well.

Harold Bronson moved from the Rhino Records store in Los Angeles and eventually moved to the record label turning it into one of the most highly-regarded reissue labels in the world.

Bronson's new book is a collection of amazing stories, told in diary form beginning with his senior year in high school, continuing through college and his first attempts at rock journalism, the growth of the label, right up to when he decided to leave.

Harold joined Jim Monaghan on All Mixed Up to talk about the book, some of the many artists he came to know and work with, and egg creams.

Growing up as a drummer I played in several metal bands that went nowhere lol. But it was fun nonetheless. Of course, there were many bands from New Jersey me and my bandmates looked up to. We have such a great music scene here in the Garden State and Heavy Metal is a genre which has a rich history and doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon! We’re going to take a look at 5 great Hard Rock and heavy Metal bands from New Jersey you should know!

Heavy metal music in New Jersey has a rich and vibrant history that has left a big mark on both the state's musical culture and the global metal scene. Known for its gritty urban landscapes and industrial backdrop, New Jersey's heavy metal sound reflects the toughness and resilience of its people.

The state has birthed and nurtured several iconic metal bands, such as Overkill, Symphony X, and more. These bands have not only achieved global recognition but have also played a significant role in shaping the evolution of heavy metal.

Venues like the Starland Ballroom in Sayreville and The Stone Pony in Asbury Park have become hallowed grounds for metalheads, hosting countless unforgettable concerts and events. The New Jersey metal scene has always been diverse, with subgenres like thrash, progressive, and hardcore finding dedicated followings. We love to get loud and heavy…..it’s in our blood here in Jersey.

Moreover, the state's heavy metal community is renowned for its loyalty and camaraderie. Fans come together to celebrate their passion for heavy music, forging lifelong friendships and supporting local talent.

Heavy metal in New Jersey is more than just a genre; it's a culture deeply rooted in the state's history and identity. With its influential bands, iconic venues, and dedicated fan base, New Jersey continues to be a vital hub in the global heavy metal landscape.

Let's take a look at 5 hard rock and metal bands from New Jersey you should know.

There's been a number of lineup changes, but one thing remains consistent with their music. It's always thrashy, heavy and fun to listen to!

This is pure Metal Core.  Heavy, with sick crunchy guitar riffs.  Cool stuff!  Those screams are raw emotion!!!

Progressive Metal at it's finest.  I have no idea how you remember what part to play lol.  But it's pretty damn good stuff!

Lumped into the Nu-Metal batch of bands, these guys do it all.  They mix/blend various genres together to give you something pretty unique.

Call it Latin Metal, Alt-Metal....call it whatever you want.  This is heavy and rockin' and just downright cool!