Rob Miller
@millerscave.bsky.social
https://www.robmillerwriting.com/
Author. Cofounder Bloodshot Records. DJ at Miller’s Cave.
Exploring the murky recesses of roots music:
Streaming at radioharborcountry.org
Sat: 4 to 5 PM & Sun: 9 to 10pm (Eastern)
Chicago via Detroit
Author. Cofounder Bloodshot Records. DJ at Miller’s Cave.
Exploring the murky recesses of roots music:
Streaming at radioharborcountry.org
Sat: 4 to 5 PM & Sun: 9 to 10pm (Eastern)
Chicago via Detroit
Pinned
Rob Miller
@millerscave.bsky.social
· Jul 4
Terrified to announce 11/25/25 release. A journey of weird record stores, grimy clubs, and starting venerable label Bloodshot Records. History, memoir, how-to, and a cautionary call to support indie arts communities before they are gone.
Pre-order now:
www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p0...
Pre-order now:
www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p0...
Absolutely. I write in my book--"The Hours Are Long But The Pay Is Low"--- about coming across this song (via the @thecramps.bsky.social ) and how it opened my mind to the WORLD of weirdness that existed in the underbelly of American music long before "punk rock" had been dreamt up and codified.
Before Bob Mould, Paul Westerberg, or Shannon Selberg ever learned how to sing, Steve Wahrer proved that Minnesotans could be punk rock as fuck. November 21, 1941 - January 21, 1989.
youtu.be/9Gc4QTqslN4?...
youtu.be/9Gc4QTqslN4?...
The Trashmen - Surfin Bird - Bird is the Word 1963 (ALT End with Andre Van Duin) (UNOFFICIAL VIDEO)
YouTube video by VDJ MikeyMike
youtu.be
November 22, 2025 at 5:41 PM
Absolutely. I write in my book--"The Hours Are Long But The Pay Is Low"--- about coming across this song (via the @thecramps.bsky.social ) and how it opened my mind to the WORLD of weirdness that existed in the underbelly of American music long before "punk rock" had been dreamt up and codified.
Reposted by Rob Miller
Author Rob Miller and I discuss his new book "The Hours Are Long, But the Pay Is Low: A Curious Life in Independent Music" on the latest episode.
Listen here - bit.ly/4ruVuL0 or wherever you enjoy podcasts.
@millerscave.bsky.social
@illinoispress.bsky.social
Listen here - bit.ly/4ruVuL0 or wherever you enjoy podcasts.
@millerscave.bsky.social
@illinoispress.bsky.social
November 22, 2025 at 2:31 PM
Author Rob Miller and I discuss his new book "The Hours Are Long, But the Pay Is Low: A Curious Life in Independent Music" on the latest episode.
Listen here - bit.ly/4ruVuL0 or wherever you enjoy podcasts.
@millerscave.bsky.social
@illinoispress.bsky.social
Listen here - bit.ly/4ruVuL0 or wherever you enjoy podcasts.
@millerscave.bsky.social
@illinoispress.bsky.social
Have a listen. It was a fun one. Come for the convo, stay for my answer to "who do I want to hear LESS: Lynryd Skynyrd or Led Zeppelin?"
#robmillerwriting #altcountry #musicbooks
@illinoispress.bsky.social #insurgentcountry #indielabels
#booksky #chicagomusic #americana
#robmillerwriting #altcountry #musicbooks
@illinoispress.bsky.social #insurgentcountry #indielabels
#booksky #chicagomusic #americana
Author Rob Miller and I discuss his new book "The Hours Are Long, But the Pay Is Low: A Curious Life in Independent Music" on the latest episode.
Listen here - bit.ly/4ruVuL0 or wherever you enjoy podcasts.
@millerscave.bsky.social
@illinoispress.bsky.social
Listen here - bit.ly/4ruVuL0 or wherever you enjoy podcasts.
@millerscave.bsky.social
@illinoispress.bsky.social
November 22, 2025 at 3:51 PM
Have a listen. It was a fun one. Come for the convo, stay for my answer to "who do I want to hear LESS: Lynryd Skynyrd or Led Zeppelin?"
#robmillerwriting #altcountry #musicbooks
@illinoispress.bsky.social #insurgentcountry #indielabels
#booksky #chicagomusic #americana
#robmillerwriting #altcountry #musicbooks
@illinoispress.bsky.social #insurgentcountry #indielabels
#booksky #chicagomusic #americana
Wow. What a crowd of smiling goofballs at my book launch party/reading/conversation at the #bookcellar in #lincolnsquare!
They surprised me with a cake in the shape of the book (it tastes much better), and a fine time was had by all. Eternal thanks to my interviewer @marthabayne.bsky.social
They surprised me with a cake in the shape of the book (it tastes much better), and a fine time was had by all. Eternal thanks to my interviewer @marthabayne.bsky.social
November 21, 2025 at 5:25 PM
Wow. What a crowd of smiling goofballs at my book launch party/reading/conversation at the #bookcellar in #lincolnsquare!
They surprised me with a cake in the shape of the book (it tastes much better), and a fine time was had by all. Eternal thanks to my interviewer @marthabayne.bsky.social
They surprised me with a cake in the shape of the book (it tastes much better), and a fine time was had by all. Eternal thanks to my interviewer @marthabayne.bsky.social
Can confirm!
There are few things in life as thrilling as a book-cover cake 😍
Pre-order THE HOURS ARE LONG, BUT THE PAY IS LOW by @millerscave.bsky.social today, and avoid the crowds when it releases next Tuesday!
www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p0...
Pre-order THE HOURS ARE LONG, BUT THE PAY IS LOW by @millerscave.bsky.social today, and avoid the crowds when it releases next Tuesday!
www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p0...
November 21, 2025 at 3:15 PM
Can confirm!
I am very good at state capitols and vice presidents...so Martha's work is cut out for her.
See you tonight Chicago! I try to ask @millerscave.bsky.social unexpected questions tonight @ 6:30 pm at the Book Cellar.
November 20, 2025 at 2:45 PM
I am very good at state capitols and vice presidents...so Martha's work is cut out for her.
Folks have been asking "is there a playlist featuring the music/artists/albums you write about in your upcoming book?"
By golly, there is: Hit random & let it rip: 125 songs that were inspirational, weird, and formative.
www.robmillerwriting.com/playlist
#playlists #altcountry #insurgentcountry
By golly, there is: Hit random & let it rip: 125 songs that were inspirational, weird, and formative.
www.robmillerwriting.com/playlist
#playlists #altcountry #insurgentcountry
November 19, 2025 at 8:44 PM
Folks have been asking "is there a playlist featuring the music/artists/albums you write about in your upcoming book?"
By golly, there is: Hit random & let it rip: 125 songs that were inspirational, weird, and formative.
www.robmillerwriting.com/playlist
#playlists #altcountry #insurgentcountry
By golly, there is: Hit random & let it rip: 125 songs that were inspirational, weird, and formative.
www.robmillerwriting.com/playlist
#playlists #altcountry #insurgentcountry
@glidemag.bsky.social just posted a story and interview with me about my upcoming book "The Hours Are Long But The Pay Is Low" available now at @illinoispress.bsky.social
Read it here:
glidemagazine.com/319975/rob-m...
#altcountry #insurgentcountry #musicbooks
#booksky #authorsofbluesky
Read it here:
glidemagazine.com/319975/rob-m...
#altcountry #insurgentcountry #musicbooks
#booksky #authorsofbluesky
November 18, 2025 at 8:35 PM
@glidemag.bsky.social just posted a story and interview with me about my upcoming book "The Hours Are Long But The Pay Is Low" available now at @illinoispress.bsky.social
Read it here:
glidemagazine.com/319975/rob-m...
#altcountry #insurgentcountry #musicbooks
#booksky #authorsofbluesky
Read it here:
glidemagazine.com/319975/rob-m...
#altcountry #insurgentcountry #musicbooks
#booksky #authorsofbluesky
Reposted by Rob Miller
A book that is actually good and offers 26 templates for resisting oppression, strengthening agency, and figuring out how to stand in the courage of your own convictions.
Just saying.
Just saying.
November 17, 2025 at 6:11 PM
A book that is actually good and offers 26 templates for resisting oppression, strengthening agency, and figuring out how to stand in the courage of your own convictions.
Just saying.
Just saying.
Reposted by Rob Miller
Up now @chicagomag.com -- an excerpt from @millerscave.bsky.social's new book. Join us Thursday at the Book Cellar! 6:30 pm www.chicagomag.com/chicago-maga...
The Birth of Bloodshot Records
In an excerpt from his new memoir, a Bloodshot Records founder recounts the start of a genre-defining label.
www.chicagomag.com
November 17, 2025 at 7:53 PM
Up now @chicagomag.com -- an excerpt from @millerscave.bsky.social's new book. Join us Thursday at the Book Cellar! 6:30 pm www.chicagomag.com/chicago-maga...
Come for the excerpt, stay for the dorky photo of yours truly.
www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p0...
#altcountry #insurgentcountry #booksky #musicbooks #indielabels
www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p0...
#altcountry #insurgentcountry #booksky #musicbooks #indielabels
November 17, 2025 at 9:00 PM
Come for the excerpt, stay for the dorky photo of yours truly.
www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p0...
#altcountry #insurgentcountry #booksky #musicbooks #indielabels
www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p0...
#altcountry #insurgentcountry #booksky #musicbooks #indielabels
So much for a good night's sleep any time in the near future.
November 17, 2025 at 4:15 PM
So much for a good night's sleep any time in the near future.
Nearing the 39th anniv. of my 1st trip to Graceland. After 3 or 4 beers at the nearby Hound Dog Cafe, I suggested to the tour guide that I didn't think EP could have squeezed into the "Flight of the Phoenix" jumpsuit displayed on a mannequin. A security guard gave me a stern STFU look.
#elvis
#elvis
November 17, 2025 at 1:45 AM
Nearing the 39th anniv. of my 1st trip to Graceland. After 3 or 4 beers at the nearby Hound Dog Cafe, I suggested to the tour guide that I didn't think EP could have squeezed into the "Flight of the Phoenix" jumpsuit displayed on a mannequin. A security guard gave me a stern STFU look.
#elvis
#elvis
To celebrate the opening day of Deer Season, I give you 3 year old Rob enjoying the bounty of dad's shooting acumen.
#openingday
#deerseason
#openingday
#deerseason
November 15, 2025 at 7:39 PM
To celebrate the opening day of Deer Season, I give you 3 year old Rob enjoying the bounty of dad's shooting acumen.
#openingday
#deerseason
#openingday
#deerseason
Reposted by Rob Miller
New #booksky #musicsky
@millerscave.bsky.social
Just arrived: Rob Miller - The Hours are Long But The Pay Is Low
@millerscave.bsky.social
Just arrived: Rob Miller - The Hours are Long But The Pay Is Low
November 14, 2025 at 7:41 PM
New #booksky #musicsky
@millerscave.bsky.social
Just arrived: Rob Miller - The Hours are Long But The Pay Is Low
@millerscave.bsky.social
Just arrived: Rob Miller - The Hours are Long But The Pay Is Low
Join me today on Miller's Cave, 4pm Eastern. Streaming at
www.radioharborcountry.org I keep radio weird with tracks by @steveearle.bsky.social , Etta James, Roger Miller, Slim Harpo, Flat Duo Jets and more.
#radioharborcountry
#rootsradio #indieradio
Replayed Sunday night 9pm.
www.radioharborcountry.org I keep radio weird with tracks by @steveearle.bsky.social , Etta James, Roger Miller, Slim Harpo, Flat Duo Jets and more.
#radioharborcountry
#rootsradio #indieradio
Replayed Sunday night 9pm.
November 15, 2025 at 3:01 PM
Join me today on Miller's Cave, 4pm Eastern. Streaming at
www.radioharborcountry.org I keep radio weird with tracks by @steveearle.bsky.social , Etta James, Roger Miller, Slim Harpo, Flat Duo Jets and more.
#radioharborcountry
#rootsradio #indieradio
Replayed Sunday night 9pm.
www.radioharborcountry.org I keep radio weird with tracks by @steveearle.bsky.social , Etta James, Roger Miller, Slim Harpo, Flat Duo Jets and more.
#radioharborcountry
#rootsradio #indieradio
Replayed Sunday night 9pm.
Reposted by Rob Miller
"If not just Parker’s music, but pub rock, the roots of UK punk, and great stories about ’70s rock and roll are up your alley, I highly recommend this book" @bigtakeover.com writes in its review of grahamparkershowlinwind.net, written with the assistance of @thegrahamparker.bsky.social.#rockandroll
Graham Parker's Howlin' Wind by Jay Nachman with Graham Parker and The Rumour (Tangible Press, 2025)
bigtakeover.com
November 14, 2025 at 1:51 PM
"If not just Parker’s music, but pub rock, the roots of UK punk, and great stories about ’70s rock and roll are up your alley, I highly recommend this book" @bigtakeover.com writes in its review of grahamparkershowlinwind.net, written with the assistance of @thegrahamparker.bsky.social.#rockandroll
Reposted by Rob Miller
Reminder: Every time you shop at an independent bookstore, Jeff Bezos loses a little bit of power.
November 12, 2025 at 8:54 PM
Reminder: Every time you shop at an independent bookstore, Jeff Bezos loses a little bit of power.
C'mon by! We'll chat, we'll have some wine, music talked about in the book will be playing on the PA, all at the lovely Book Cellar in Lincoln Square.
I'll be awkward, it'll be fun.
@marthabayne.bsky.social #lincolnsquare #bookcellar #robmillerwriting #booksky #insurgentcountry #altcountry
I'll be awkward, it'll be fun.
@marthabayne.bsky.social #lincolnsquare #bookcellar #robmillerwriting #booksky #insurgentcountry #altcountry
November 12, 2025 at 2:30 PM
C'mon by! We'll chat, we'll have some wine, music talked about in the book will be playing on the PA, all at the lovely Book Cellar in Lincoln Square.
I'll be awkward, it'll be fun.
@marthabayne.bsky.social #lincolnsquare #bookcellar #robmillerwriting #booksky #insurgentcountry #altcountry
I'll be awkward, it'll be fun.
@marthabayne.bsky.social #lincolnsquare #bookcellar #robmillerwriting #booksky #insurgentcountry #altcountry
“Wow, what a great read/ride. I found Rob Miller’s journey through the music industry fascinating and fun, and when not giggling I was laughing out loud."
Blurb from Jeff Nelson Minor Threat/Dischord Records
www.robmillerwriting.com
#punkflyers #freezertheater #detroit #hardcore #minorthreat
Blurb from Jeff Nelson Minor Threat/Dischord Records
www.robmillerwriting.com
#punkflyers #freezertheater #detroit #hardcore #minorthreat
November 12, 2025 at 2:31 AM
“Wow, what a great read/ride. I found Rob Miller’s journey through the music industry fascinating and fun, and when not giggling I was laughing out loud."
Blurb from Jeff Nelson Minor Threat/Dischord Records
www.robmillerwriting.com
#punkflyers #freezertheater #detroit #hardcore #minorthreat
Blurb from Jeff Nelson Minor Threat/Dischord Records
www.robmillerwriting.com
#punkflyers #freezertheater #detroit #hardcore #minorthreat
Wondering if my "senator" @durbin.senate.gov will ever see this. Or understand it is about him.
Hope is parachute is golden enough at this point.
Hope is parachute is golden enough at this point.
November 11, 2025 at 6:32 PM
Wondering if my "senator" @durbin.senate.gov will ever see this. Or understand it is about him.
Hope is parachute is golden enough at this point.
Hope is parachute is golden enough at this point.
Reposted by Rob Miller
Happy #NationalLifeWritingMonth to @millerscave.bsky.social, who cofounded Bloodshot Records in November 1993 and lived to write about it in his new memoir, THE HOURS ARE LONG, BUT THE PAY IS LOW!
Buy one (or seven!) for everyone you know today!
www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p0...
Buy one (or seven!) for everyone you know today!
www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p0...
November 10, 2025 at 4:02 PM
Happy #NationalLifeWritingMonth to @millerscave.bsky.social, who cofounded Bloodshot Records in November 1993 and lived to write about it in his new memoir, THE HOURS ARE LONG, BUT THE PAY IS LOW!
Buy one (or seven!) for everyone you know today!
www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p0...
Buy one (or seven!) for everyone you know today!
www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p0...
So much more inspiring than the eccentric, older Hasselhoff
We always need an eccentric older David who’s everywhere in pop culture and I’m thrilled that David Byrne has taken on the responsibility from Davids Bowie and Lynch
November 10, 2025 at 4:31 PM
So much more inspiring than the eccentric, older Hasselhoff
The time is getting closer!!
Terrified to announce 11/25/25 release. A journey of weird record stores, grimy clubs, and starting venerable label Bloodshot Records. History, memoir, how-to, and a cautionary call to support indie arts communities before they are gone.
Pre-order now:
www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p0...
Pre-order now:
www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p0...
November 10, 2025 at 3:33 PM
The time is getting closer!!
Reposted by Rob Miller
“The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” is a moving memorial to those who died but it continues to be a wildly unsuccessful strip club song.
November 10, 2025 at 2:20 PM
“The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” is a moving memorial to those who died but it continues to be a wildly unsuccessful strip club song.