Marc Spitz, born on October 2, 1969, and passing away on February 4, 2017, was a prominent American music journalist, writer, and playwright. His insightful writings on rock and roll and popular culture graced the pages of numerous esteemed publications, establishing him as a significant voice in music criticism. Spitz's career saw him contribute to a wide array of magazines and newspapers, where he explored the nuances of music and its cultural impact,
leaving behind a substantial body of work that continues to resonate with readers interested in the history and evolution of popular music.
A Prolific Music Journalist
Spitz's journalistic career was marked by his role as a Senior Writer for *Spin* magazine, a publication renowned for its coverage of music and youth culture. Beyond *Spin*, his articles appeared in *The New York Times*, *Maxim*, *Blender*, *Harp*, *Nylon*, and the *New York Post*. He also served as a contributing music writer for *Vanity Fair*, further solidifying his presence in mainstream media. His ability to articulate the essence of rock and roll and popular culture made him a sought-after commentator and writer.His contributions were not limited to print; Spitz also made appearances as a "talking head" on television networks such as MTV, VH1, and MSNBC. These appearances allowed him to share his expertise and perspectives with a broader audience, extending his influence beyond the written word. His multifaceted approach to journalism, encompassing both print and broadcast media, underscored his dedication to exploring and disseminating insights into the world of music.
Author of Biographies and Novels
Beyond his journalistic endeavors, Spitz was a prolific author, penning several novels and biographies. His novels include *How Soon Is Never* and *Too Much, Too Late*. He delved into the lives of musical icons and movements through his biographies, such as *We Got the Neutron Bomb: The Untold Story of LA Punk*, co-authored with Brendan Mullen. Other notable biographies include *Nobody Likes You: Inside the Turbulent Life, Times and Music of Green Day*, *Bowie: A Biography*, and *Jagger: Rebel, Rock Star, Rambler, Rogue*.Spitz's literary works were not confined to the English language; his books have been translated and published in French, Danish, German, and Dutch, indicating his international appeal and the universal relevance of his subjects. He also contributed to anthologies like *The Encyclopedia of Ex-es*, *Howl: A Collection of the Best Contemporary Dog Wit*, and *Rock N’ Roll Cage Match: Music’s Greatest Rivalries Decided*, showcasing his versatility as a writer across different genres and topics.
A Voice in Academia and Public Discourse
Spitz's expertise was recognized in academic circles as well. He delivered talks at Columbia University on playwrighting and at DePaul University on journalism, sharing his knowledge and experiences with aspiring writers and journalists. These engagements highlight his role not just as a creator of content, but also as an educator and mentor, contributing to the development of future generations in the fields he mastered.His public appearances and academic contributions further cemented his status as a respected figure in both the literary and journalistic communities. Marc Spitz's life, though cut short at 47 in February 2017 in New York City, left an indelible mark on music journalism and popular culture commentary, with his work continuing to be a valuable resource for understanding the cultural landscape of his time.
