these books were essential reading for teenagers who wanted to work in music back in the 70s.

The articles are still very relevant - the review of Black Sabbath at the Rainbow is a really good read. And the look at pop and hype and stuff.

Sort of makes me think that things have not changed that much in 30 years. Digital has come and changed the way in which music is reaching people but the ideas behind the industry remain very similar.

Yes, the articles in the Rock File books are really good and still relevant today. (In a week, maybe two we'll make you a star)

And then there was the charts information. The blueprint for the Guinnes books by Rice/Gamaccini/Rice.

I used to mark all the chart-songs I had on tape, single or album.

Essential reading are also Making Tracks (about Atlantic) and The Sound Of The City (both Charlie Gillett) and (nearly) everything Simon Frith ever wrote.