How Jann Wenner Shaped Rock History In His Own Image

How Jann Wenner Shaped Rock History In His Own Image

More than any other writer or editor, Jann Wenner has shaped the narrative of rock history from his perch at Rolling Stone and, later, as one of the gatekeepers at the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame.

In Joe Hagan’s new book, Sticky Fingers: The Life And Times Of Jann Wenner And Rolling Stone Magazine, Wenner’s life and career are contextualized in the cultural shifts in America from the ’60s through the modern era, showing how Wenner ruthlessly engineered or capitalized on these changes for immense personal gain.

In this episode, Hagan talks about his rocky relationship with Wenner, as well as Wenner’s equally rancorous dealings with rock stars such as Mick Jagger, John Lennon, and Paul McCartney. Ultimately, Wenner and his political opposite, Donald Trump, have more in common than either man would care to admit, Hagan says.

With support from: Harry’s and Brooklinen