Rock Town Hall was founded to carry on and expand late-night turntable debates on self-important issues in rock. In 2002, we convened as a private discussion list among a baker's dozen of opinionated, music-loving friends. In time we grew to a virtual Who the Hell Does He Think He Is? among rock musicians, journalists, DJs, record collectors, and assorted rock nerds. Although we continue to possess little power to influence the state of rock ‘n roll, we delight in the battle and seek the cultivation of occasionally novel perspectives on the genre.

Now we're throwing the doors of Rock Town Hall open to You, The People! We've heard your charges of backroom conspiracies and midnight confessions, brokered 3-star reviews and Tuesday night gigs. Open the door, they said, and let 'em in.

Follow up:

Over the years, we've made it our business to dissect issues such as

• The Validity of Rock Bands Lacking Bassists
• How the Hell Anyone Can Like The Smiths
• Whether Bob Seger and George Thorogood Would Have Garnered More Critical Acclaim Had They Possessed Better Looks, Thereby Enabling Them to Appeal to More Than Biker and NASCAR Dudes and Their Women

We've also had the opportunity to rediscover and celebrate past masters, turn on old dogs to new tricks, share the intimate details of our rock 'n roll love letters, and electronically high-five over the knowledge that another soul loves the same obscure '60s B-side.

These issues and others continue to be open to frank discussion and periodic review. There's no end in sight to our work, and your opinions count. Rock Town Hall is a place where the Comments section is King. Regardless of the pomposity and insider knowledge with which any contributor may kick off a thread, The People are encouraged to steer discussion as The People see fit. It takes a great man or woman to think he or she's right; it takes a great community to seek The Truth.

For now, I ask you to help us in taking Rock Town Hall to the streets. There're you'll find useful background information. Chime in, have fun, play hard but fair, make connections.

I look forward to your input!

Mr. Moderator