The Professor of Rock, Adam Reader, is a music aficionado with an encyclopedic knowledge of rock and roll history. With over a million YouTube subscribers and a new syndicated radio show, “Classic Rock U,” he’s bringing his unique brand of storytelling to a wider audience. But how did this self-proclaimed “prep monster” go from small-town Idaho to rock and roll royalty?
The Origins of a Rock and Roll Professor
Growing up in Blackfoot, Idaho, Adam Reader’s passion for music was ignited by his father, a dedicated classic rock fan. Weekly trips to the record store and listening to Casey Kasem’s “American Top 40” fueled a lifelong curiosity about the stories behind the songs. MTV further solidified his love for the genre, exposing him to a visual landscape of rock and roll.
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Reader’s early years were spent absorbing music history through magazines, books, and any resource he could find. This insatiable thirst for knowledge led him to discover that the real-life tales behind the music were often more compelling than fiction. This realization would eventually shape his career.
From Garage Band to YouTube Star
Reader’s path to becoming Professor Rock was far from straightforward. He fronted a band, winning a Hollywood Music Award, but ultimately chose family over the unpredictable life of a touring musician. He then ventured into music education before a chance encounter led him to host a local music TV show.
His first interview, with Kenny Loggins, proved to be a pivotal moment. Loggins recognized Reader’s talent for storytelling and encouraged him to pursue it further. Connections with the Doobie Brothers, the Beach Boys (who bestowed upon him the moniker “Professor of Rock”), and other iconic artists followed.
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The pandemic forced Reader to pivot to YouTube, where he found an even larger audience. His daily videos, delving deep into the history and lore of classic rock, resonated with music lovers worldwide. His channel organically grew to over a million subscribers, proving the power of authentic storytelling.
Classic Rock U: A New Chapter on the Radio Waves
Now, Professor Rock is taking his passion to terrestrial radio with “Classic Rock U,” a syndicated show airing on legendary stations like WDRV in Chicago, KSLX in Phoenix, and KSHE in St. Louis. The four-hour program flips the script on his YouTube format, focusing on music interspersed with captivating anecdotes from iconic artists.
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Reader sees radio as a homecoming, connecting him back to his childhood and the medium that first sparked his love for music. He believes in the enduring power of radio and its ability to create shared experiences. “Classic Rock U” offers listeners a curated journey through the genre, blending familiar hits with lesser-known stories and deep cuts.
The Professor’s Philosophy: Storytelling and the Human Experience
Professor Rock’s success lies in his understanding of the power of storytelling. He believes that music becomes more meaningful when we understand the context and inspiration behind it. He views songs as “old friends,” connecting us to memories and shared experiences. He also embraces the element of surprise inherent in radio, allowing listeners to discover new music and deepen their appreciation for familiar favorites.
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His commitment to sharing these stories transcends platforms. From YouTube to radio, and even live events with legendary artists, Professor Rock is on a mission to keep the spirit of rock and roll alive for generations to come. His journey serves as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the enduring allure of a great story.
