By Ann Stack Senior Reporter People have asked me if I've had a good time this year being an Arts and Entertainment reporter. They ask if I've learned anything, writing about bands no one's ever heard of. The answer to both questions is an emphatic yes. It takes more brains to learn to walk in stilettos than it does to be a rock critic. After three sprained ankles, I bagged the groupie-garb for a pen and a set of earplugs.
Bands have to kiss record-label butt black and blue.
I didn't know anything about being a music writer. I like music, but I'm no expert. I've never smoked dope and I can't even inhale cigarettes properly. I can't sing or play an instrument. Frank Zappa bores me.