My Top 10 Hard Rock Demands for 2025

Kevin McElroy
Editor, Tune Up Magazine

A New Year, A New Rock Resolution

It’s a new year, and I’m going to keep hopeful. Before the holidays, I was listening to Eddie Trunk’s Trunk Nation show on Sirius XM, and he proposed what I thought was a great idea: Instead of calls complaining about what’s not happening in Rock, why not channel some positive energy? Listeners could share their hopes and wishes for 2025. Maybe, just maybe, putting those ideas out into the universe could help manifest them into reality. I wasn’t able to call in to Eddie with my list and didn’t want to bogart too much time, so let me do it here on our platform. Many of the items on this list echo similar sentiments heard on Eddie’s show, and I’m happy to throw my hat in our community ring. Inspired by that, here’s my list of Rock wishes for the year ahead—things I’d love to see, hear, and feel in the world of Rock and Roll.

1. Rekindle the Magic of Radio

Let’s bring back the magic of radio. I’m talking about kids discovering the joy of live DJs and experiencing that element of surprise you only get when you’re not in control of the playlist. There’s nothing quite like turning the dial and hearing a song that takes your breath away for the first time. Radio was, and should stay, an integral part of the community. It requires passionate people who love music at its controls—just like teachers who understand their students deeply and know how to inspire them to achieve great things. DJs are the same; they become trusted companions to their listeners, tailoring songs to their audience and building a relationship that’s as personal as it is powerful.

AND FOR ROCK GOD’S SAKE, MAKE GREAT RADIO FREE! Let us listeners support great music by supporting the businesses and advertisers that support what we love. It’s about the economy, stupid. Corporations are unfortunately here to stay too, and they won’t give a shit what our beloved DJs are playing if they’re making ad revenue. Seriously, how many more subscriptions do I need? Just let me support the businesses backing great music.

2. Rock and Roll Dreams for Grammy Recognition

Wouldn’t it be incredible to see a great Rock band dominate the Grammys? Every time a legacy act like AC/DC or Mötley Crüe shows up at the broadcast, the crowd goes wild. It’s electric. Yet, it’s rare to find Rock—real Rock—represented anywhere else on the show. My wish is for 2025 to give us a moment like that, where Rock commands the spotlight and reminds everyone why it’s the heartbeat of music.

3. Rediscover the Rebellious Spirit of Rock

Rock and Roll has always been about rebellion. It’s the soundtrack of standing up, speaking out, and breaking free. If 2025 isn’t cause enough to rediscover that rebellious spirit, I don’t know what is. My hope is for Rock to inspire people—especially the younger generation—to find their voice and embrace the defiant soul of this genre.

4. Rediscover the Art of the Album

In the age of endless playlists and shuffle buttons, there’s something deeply satisfying about sitting down with a complete album. Spending time with the music, listening to it as a whole, and discovering the story the artist wants to tell. There’s also a special magic to exploring music in a record shop—the sound of vinyl spinning and the thrill of shuffling through crates to uncover hidden gems. I hope more people rediscover the joy of that immersive experience in 2025. I also hope kids discover how much better music sounds in a record shop, and shuffling through crates is an awesome way to discover new music.

5. Expand the Rock Hall of Fame

I’d love to see the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame add to its name. The name Rock and Roll is here to stay, but we could add “& Friends” or “& Its Influences and Influencers.” I don’t mind seeing artists from other genres get inducted; it’s fascinating to hear the stories of how different sounds have influenced Rock and vice versa. But let’s keep the focus on those who shaped the spirit and legacy of Rock music.

6. Support the Future of Rock

There are so many great Rock bands and songs out there that may never find an audience. My wish is for 2025 to be the year those hidden gems find their way to new ears. Let’s also hope for thriving local music scenes in every town, where venue owners work with artists and bands to build communities that grow a scene—and maybe even the next big thing.

7. Elevate the Live Music Experience

Just as Eddie has had to champion for too long a time, when I go to a live Rock show, I want it to be live — no tracks, no shortcuts, just raw, real performances. And while we’re at it, let’s make sure every venue nails the sound. There’s nothing more frustrating than seeing an incredible band in a venue where the sound doesn’t do them justice. Imagine this: a world where every town is alive with the sound of guitars and voices that won’t quit. That’s the dream.

8. Expand Rock on New Platforms

During the pandemic, the Grand Ole Opry’s Saturday night live streams were a revelation. Imagine a Rock version of that—a regular broadcast, Rock variety show, or stream featuring live performances, deep dives into the music, and interviews with the artists. It’s time for Rock to have a bigger presence on TV and streaming platforms. Let’s make it happen.

9. Strengthen Rock Education for the Next Generation

Music in schools is more important than ever. Programs like Little Steven’s Rock and Roll Forever Foundation should be contagious, inspiring kids to pick up instruments and learn about the history of Rock. Let’s give them the tools and the knowledge to carry this genre forward.

10. Build a Stronger Rock Community

Here’s a wish I hope everyone listening or reading takes to heart: Give us internetainers a chance and share your feedback—good, bad, or otherwise. Many of us might be glorified book clubs when it comes to our radio shows or podcasts, but we’re here for the same reason: to promote the music we love, the new discoveries, the rediscoveries, and the legacy of the bands we grew up with. Eddie Trunk has earned his perch on the Silver Mountain as a legendary voice in Rock, but there’s room to build an even bigger community on top of the smaller ones we’ve already created. Together, we can amplify the music, stories, and passion that connect us all. A special shoutout to the incredible team behind ROCKNPOD for doing their part to promote unity in the rock community. Their efforts to bring fans, artists, and creators together are a testament to the power of collaboration in keeping the spirit of Rock alive.

Rock Hard in 2025

This isn’t just my wishlist—it’s a call to action for all of us who love Rock to step up and make it happen. They’re not just about hoping for change—they’re about starting conversations and taking small actions that can lead to something bigger. Whether it’s supporting your local music scene, diving into a new album, or just tuning in to a live radio show, every little bit counts. Let’s make this the year we keep rock alive and thriving. Until then, keep the faith, and the volume up.