The Long Play Sessions: Paul Sexton with Rock Goes to College (Special performance from Freya Everest)

Join us for an unforgettable evening featuring Paul Sexton, a renowned music journalist, author, and broadcaster! He will delve into his latest book, Rock Goes to College — an insightful exploration of the hidden history behind the UK’s university gig circuit that launched countless legendary artists. ✍️🎤

Get ready for a captivating opening performance by the talented Freya Everest, setting the stage for what promises to be a memorable night!

In Rock Goes to College, Sexton chronicles the rise of the British student gig scene from the late 1960s to the 1970s. This vibrant touring network emerged as a testing ground for up-and-coming artists during the monumental rise of rock music and the album era. As new universities opened their doors, bands traveled the country in old vans, performing at student unions and tirelessly pursuing their dreams of securing a record deal.

Through detailed original interviews and unparalleled access to artists and industry veterans, Sexton shares incredible stories of early careers from iconic acts like Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, The Who, Queen, Elton John, Fleetwood Mac, Genesis, Nick Drake, AC/DC, and Dire Straits. Discover how these experiences shaped not only their futures but also influenced the modern music landscape.

Rock Goes to College is a blend of music history and social commentary, reflecting a pivotal time when higher education, youth culture, and live music converged, reshaping careers and communities in British rock. 🎸📚

What to Expect:

• An enlightening discussion with Paul Sexton about the inspiration and research behind Rock Goes to College.
• Unique insights into the UK’s university gig circuit and its impact on developing iconic musicians.
• Conversations surrounding music journalism, biography, and the documentation of cultural history.
• Engaging Q&A session with the audience.
• A lively and intimate acoustic performance by Freya Everest.
• An opportunity to get your book signed — don’t forget to bring your copy or purchase one on-site! 📖✒️

We can’t wait to welcome you to The Long Play Sessions for a night filled with entertainment, insightful discussions, and a nostalgic dive into one of British music's most significant yet underexplored chapters.

About The Long Play Sessions

This event is part of The Long Play Sessions, a curated series presented by ICMP Music School, dedicated to celebrating influential writers whose works have profoundly shaped our understanding of music, culture, and creative history. Each session brings remarkable books to life through live conversations, historical context, and deep industry insights.

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Looking forward to seeing you there! 🎉