Co-founding MTV is only part of Tom Freston's fascinating life story. He recounts many of his wild exploits in his 2025 memoir Unplugged: Adventures from MTV to Timbuktu.

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In this episode of Loud Lit, we review Tupac Shakur: The Authorized Biography by Staci Robinson. Drawing on her connection to the Shakur family and firsthand accounts from friends, family, and fellow musicians, Robinson offers an intimate and comprehensive look at Tupac's short but impactful life.

Order your copy of Tupac Shakur: The Authorized Biography at Bookshop.org.

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Michael Azerrad’s Come As You Are: The Story of Nirvana was the only biography written with the full cooperation of Kurt Cobain, Krist Novoselic, and Dave Grohl. Thirty years later, Azerrad returns with The Amplified Come As You Are, overlaying the original, honest narrative with hundreds of new annotations.

This expanded version provides the author's valuable hindsight, corrects myths and inaccuracies, and offers a deeper reflection on Nirvana's legacy, band dynamics, and the challenges of music journalism.

Get your copy of The Amplified Come As You Are: The Story of Nirvana.

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Gain a deeper appreciation of your favorite music artists and genres. Loud Lit delivers recommendations of books that explore the world of rock, hip hop, and more.

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Launches 1/3/26