New Books Network Rob Harvilla, "60 Songs That Explain The 90s" (Twelve, 2023)
Jan 10, 2026
Rob Harvilla, a writer and music critic from The Ringer, dives into the wild world of 90s music. He shares how he chose songs for his book, weaving together nostalgia and personal anecdotes. Harvilla reminisces about memorable interviews, including a surreal chat with Courtney Love, and reflects on the era's chaotic beauty. He discusses his love for ska, the enduring influence of 90s bands, and his strong connection to the music that shaped his youth. Expect laughs, insights, and a touch of musical magic!
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Write For Real People
- Rob Harvilla aimed for clear, conversational writing by reading scripts aloud to avoid critic-only jargon.
- This approach made the podcast and book accessible to both casual listeners and knowledgeable fans.
Balance Personal Taste With Canonical Hits
- When assembling a song list, rank tracks by cultural importance and personal meaning to create balance.
- Mix genres and years to keep the series fresh and avoid predictable sequencing.
Courtney Love Interview Surprise
- Rob described his surreal two-hour conversation with Courtney Love for the Nirvana episode.
- He let her lead, following her tangents to capture her perspective authentically.
