Spencer Kaufman is the Editor-in-Chief of Loudwire. He grew up playing stickball and basketball in Brooklyn, N.Y., before graduating from the University of Wisconsin with a degree in Communication Arts. He has been a professional music journalist for more than a decade in New York City. He digs punk, hardcore and industrial music, and fondly remembers the time Iggy Pop landed on him after a stage dive. His favorite movie is 'Taxi Driver' and he once played in a fictional college band called the Raging De Niros.
Spencer Kaufman
Rise Against, Slayer, Bring Me the Horizon + More Highlight Riot Fest Chicago + Denver Lineups
Following the recent announcement of the Toronto lineup, the organizers of Riot Fest have now unveiled the list of bands performing at the Chicago and Denver editions of the festivals, as well. While there are a great deal of alt-rock acts, there are a number of heavy hitters on the bills.
Miss May I ‘Deeply Shocked and Saddened’ by Fan’s Death at New York City Show
Following the tragic news that a fan died at Miss May I's show in New York on Saturday, May 3, the band has released a statement expressing their condolences and asking people to donate to his funeral fund.
Fan Reportedly Dies After Stage Dive at Miss May I Show in New York City
Tragic news to report, as a young fan has reportedly died following a stage dive at Miss May I's show at the Studio at Webster Hall in New York City last night (May 3).
Zakk Wylde’s Stolen Pelham Blue Bullseye Gibson LP Custom Guitar Recovered
Back in March, we reported that Zakk Wylde's Pelham Blue Bullseye Gibson LP Custom guitar was stolen out of the back of his tour bus during the Chicago stop on the Experience Hendrix trek. Now, there's some good news to report, as the Black Label Society frontman's prized axe has been recovered.
Late Slipknot Bassist Paul Gray’s Doctor Acquitted of Involuntary Manslaughter Charges
A verdict has been reached in the involuntary manslaughter case involving Daniel Baldi, who was accused of recklessly prescribing medications to late Slipknot bassist Paul Gray and six other patients. After two counts of involuntary manslaughter were thrown out by the judge midway through the trial, Baldi has been acquitted of the remaining seven counts following a two-day deliberation by the jury
Judas Priest Unleash New Song ‘Redeemer of Souls,’ Announce New Album of Same Name
Rejoice, Judas Priest fans! The legendary metal band has unleashed a brand-new song, 'Redeemer of Souls,' and has announced the release of a new album of the same name. The disc will be the first Judas Priest studio album in six years.
Iron Maiden Mummy + Trooper Clothed 8-Inch Eddie Action Figures Coming This Year
If you're an Iron Maiden fan, get ready to be the coolest metalhead on your block! Toy-maker NECA has announced that two clothed 8-inch Eddie action figures arriving this year. One will be a 'Trooper' edition and the other a 'Mummy' edition (both pictured above).
Download New Slayer Song ‘Implode’ for Free
Last night, we reported that Slayer surprised attendees and viewers of the Revolver Golden Gods Awards with an unannounced show-opening set that included the brand-new song 'Implode.' Today, the news gets better for Slayer fans, as the legendary band has made the tune available for free download!
2014 Revolver Golden Gods Winners
The Revolver Golden Gods Awards took place Wednesday night (April 23) at Club Nokia in Los Angeles, where rock and metal acts were honored for their talents and achievements.
New Testimony by Paul Gray’s Widow Details Slipknot Bassist’s Final Days
The involuntary manslaughter trial involving the doctor who treated Slipknot bassist Paul Gray in the days before his 2010 death is now under way at the Polk Country District Court in Iowa, and the big story to come out of yesterday's courtroom proceedings was the revealing testimony by Gray's widow Brenna.