Bangs, Lester, 1948-1982

Lester Bangs, born Leslie Conway, (1948-1982) was an American music journalist, author, and musician. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential rock critics from the late 1960s throughout the 1970s. Most known for his writings published in Creem and Rolling Stone magazines, he also wrote for The Village Voice, Penthouse, NME, and others. Bangs began freelancing with Creem in 1970, and moved to Detroit when he became the magazine's editor in 1971. He left Creem in 1976 and moved to New York City. His writing style was critical, conversational, boldly honest, and passionate about the music that he loved.