by Bob Mehr
Gilyard, Burl. “Kinda Like an Artist.” Minnesota Daily A&E, February 3, 1989.
Holdship, Bill. Interview with Paul Westerberg, 2005 (transcript).
R.E.M./WEA. Satellite presentation, October 13, 1988 (transcript).
Saccone, Teri. “Portraits: Chris Mars.” Modern Drummer, March 1990.
CHAPTER 48
Author interviews with Ray Reigstad, Carleen Krietler, Anita Stinson, and Michelle Picardo.
Other Sources
Heibutzki, Ralph. “There Goes a Regular: Bob Stinson’s Secret Life After the Replacements.” Vintage Guitar, January 2005.
Ross, R. E. “Bob Stinson: Displacement.” Cake, November–December 1990.
CHAPTER 49
Author interviews with Bill Bentley, Paul Westerberg, Tommy Stinson, Lori Bizer, Stanley Booth, Paul Natkin, Bob Dunlap, Debbie Rose, George Regis, Daune Earle, Randy Skinner, David Seltzer, Gary Hobbib, Mary Melia, Rick Krim, Julie Panebianco, and Bill Flanagan.
Other Sources
Goetzman, Keith. “Don’t Sell Your Soul.” Twin Cities Reader, January 25, 1989.
Levy, Joe, and Christian Logan. “Spins: Don’t Tell a Soul.” SPIN, March 1989.
Perry, Steve. “Achin’ to Be Understood.” Musician, February 1989.
Robbins, Ira. “Don’t Tell a Soul.” Rolling Stone, February 9, 1989.
CHAPTER 50
Author interviews with Brendan McCabe, Bob Dunlap, Roger Vitale, Carl Davino, Jim “Velvet” Sullivan, Gary Hobbib, Rick Krim, Michael Linehan, Russ Rieger, Gary Hobbib, Paul Westerberg, Tommy Stinson, Daune Earle, Lori Bizer, Dan Baird, and Bill Holdship.
Other Sources
Cromelin, Richard. “Replacements Aren’t Replaceable at Palladium.” Los Angeles Times, May 8, 1989.
Pareles, Jon. “On a Wild Joyride with the Replacements.” New York Times, April 4, 1989.
Pond, Steve. “The Growing Pains and Pleasures of the Replacements.” Rolling Stone, June 1, 1989.
CHAPTER 51
Author interviews with Steven Baker, Michael Hill, Paul Westerberg, Daniel Waters, and Winona Ryder.
Other Sources
Britt, Bruce. “Replacements Have Inside Track to Star in ‘Rock High’ Sequel.” Los Angeles Daily News, May 18, 1989.
CHAPTER 52
Author interviews with Daune Earle, Paul Westerberg, Bob Dunlap, Bill Holdship, Mary Melia, Chrissie Dunlap, Carl Davino, and Tommy Stinson.
Other Sources
Davis, Bruce. Interview with Chris Mars, December 18, 1990 (transcript).
George-Warren, Holly. Interview with Chris Mars, 1992 (transcript).
Valania, Jonathan. Interview with Paul Westerberg, April 30, 2002 (transcript).
CHAPTER 53
Author interviews with Roger Vitale, Jim “Velvet” Sullivan, Paul Westerberg, Tommy Stinson, Steven Baker, Steve Davis, and Bob Dunlap.
Other Sources
Kot, Greg. “A No-Strings Band: Replacements Want Popularity—On Their Terms.” Chicago Tribune, June 7, 1989.
CHAPTER 54
Author interviews with Benmont Tench, Bob Dunlap, Dan Baird, Paul Westerberg, Tommy Stinson, Carl Davino, Steve Davis, Alan “Bugs” Weidel, Jim “Velvet” Sullivan, Rich Fitzgerald, and Roger Vitale.
Other Sources
George-Warren, Holly. Interview with Chris Mars, 1992 (transcript).
Kot, Greg. “Replacement Parts.” Chicago Tribune, January 31, 1991.
Petty, Tom, and Steve Hochman. “On the Road with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: If It’s Monday, This Must Be Miami.” Rolling Stone, October 5, 1989.
CHAPTER 55
Author interviews with Paul Westerberg, Bill Flanagan, Lori Bizer, Gary Hobbib, Russ Rieger, Matt Wallace, Steve Jordan, Scott Litt, and Julie Panebianco.
Other Sources
Davis, Bruce. Interview with Chris Mars, December 18, 1990 (transcript).
CHAPTER 56
Author interviews with Scott Litt, Paul Westerberg, Michael Hill, Donna Ranieri, Fred Woods, Tommy Stinson, Daune Earle, and Charley Drayton.
Other Sources
Conner, Shawn. “Interview—Johnette Napolitano.” The Snipe, January 18, 2012.
Davis, Bruce. Interview with Chris Mars, December 18, 1990 (transcript).
Fazed.com. “Interview with Johnette Napolitano.” Fazed.com, 2011.
CHAPTER 57
Author interviews with Paul Westerberg, Scott Litt, Lenny Waronker, Tommy Stinson, Terry Reid, Clif Norrell, Bob Dunlap, Steve Berlin, Michael Hill, Michael Blair, Russ Rieger, and Mauro Magellan.
CHAPTER 58
Author interviews with Michael Wilson, Donna Ranieri, Paul Westerberg, Bob Dunlap, Tommy Stinson, Charlie Springer, Gary Hobbib, and Lori Bizer.
Other Sources
Valania, Jonathan. Interview with Paul Westerberg, April 30, 2002 (transcript).
CHAPTER 59
Author interviews with Paul Westerberg, Mary Melia, Seymour Stein, Charlie Springer, Bill Flanagan, Daune Earle, Tommy Stinson, George Regis, Randy Skinner, Jay Healy, Howie Klein, Michael Hill, and Russ Rieger.
Other Sources
Davis, Bruce. Interview with Chris Mars, December 18, 1990 (transcript).
Flanagan, Bill. “The Replacements’ Little Problem.” Musician, December 1990.
Holdship, Bill. Interview with Tommy Stinson, 1992 (transcript).
CHAPTER 60
Author interviews with Michael Blair, Tommy Stinson, Paul Westerberg, Robert Bennett, Steve Folsom, Jim “Velvet” Sullivan, Ken Stringfellow, Bill Holdship, Chris Morris, Jim Walsh, John Freeman, and Mike Leonard.
Other Sources
Davis, Bruce. Interview with Chris Mars, December 18, 1990 (transcript).
Holdship, Bill. Interview with Tommy Stinson, 1992 (transcript).
Walsh, Jim. The Replacements: All Over but the Shouting: An Oral History. Minneapolis: Voyageur Press, 2007.
Wilonsky, Robert. “No Mere Replacement.” Dallas Observer, May 11, 1995.
CHAPTER 61
Author interviews with Ken Stringfellow, Bob Dunlap, Robert Bennett, Steve Folsom, Kim Chapman, Russ Rieger, Paul Westerberg, Winona Ryder, Michael Hill, Dan Baird, Julie Panebianco, and Elvis Costello.
Other Sources
Gowen, Anne. “Sobriety Fuels Rumors of Drinking Band’s Split.” Washington Times, March 4, 1991.
Holdship, Bill. Interview with Tommy Stinson, 1992 (transcript).
Walsh, Jim. The Replacements: All Over but the Shouting: An Oral History. Minneapolis: Voyageur Press, 2007.
CHAPTER 62
Author interviews with Peter Jesperson, Paul Westerberg, and Paul Stark.
Other Sources
Walsh, Jim. “Peter’s Passion.” City Pages, July 14, 1993.
CHAPTER 63
Author interviews with Peter Jesperson, Bob Dunlap, Chrissie Dunlap, Kim Chapman, Johnny Mars, Paul Westerberg, Scott Esbeck, Jeff Ousley, Jim “Velvet” Sullivan, and Daune Earle.
Other Sources
Blackwell, Mark. “Keeping the Faith—Is the Replacements’ Paul Westerberg the Soul of Rock ’n’ Roll, or Just the Heel?” SPIN, August 1991.
EPILOGUE
Author interviews with Slim Dunlap, Ray Reigstad, Carleen Krietler, Anita Stinson, Tommy Stinson, Lisa Stinson, Lonnie Stinson, Marvin Gleicher, Chrissie Dunlap, Peter Jesperson, Daune Stinson, Kim Chapman, Winona Ryder, Paul Westerberg, Mike Leonard, Matt Wallace, Russ Rieger, Gary Hobbib, Josh Freese, Larry White, Jim “Velvet” Sullivan, Charles Aaron, Lori Barbero, Neal Karlen, Johnny Rzeznik, Lou Giordano, Jeff Tweedy, Jakob Dylan, Michael Hill, Bill Bentley, Chris Morris, Tommy Keene, Gary Gersh, George Regis, Don Was, Bill Flanagan, and Marc Solomon.
Other Sources
Appleford, Steve. “Tommy Boy.” Dallas Observer, May 21, 1998.
Associated Press. “Q&A with Paul Westerberg.” September 28, 2004.
Boehm, Mike. “Finding a Good Replacement: With His Band Bash & Pop, Tommy Stinson Tones Down Defiance and Aims for Longevity.” Los Angeles Times, June 12
, 1993.
Dolan, Jon. “The Replacements: The Greatest Band That Never Was.” Rolling Stone, September 22, 2014.
Gill, Andy. “Paul Westerberg: The Agony Aunt of Grunge.” Q, June 1993.
Gilmer, Vickie. “Lonesome Stranger.” Minneapolis Star-Tribune, February 21, 1999.
Hart, Joseph. “Into the Black: The Final Days of Bob Stinson.” City Pages, March, 1 1995.
Hilburn, Robert. “Irreplaceable Experience.” Los Angeles Times, February 14, 1999.
Hirschberg, Lynn. “Strange Love.” Vanity Fair, September 1992.
Holdship, Bill. “Off the ’Mats.” Los Angeles New Times, April 25, 2002.
———. Interview with Paul Westerberg and Tommy Stinson, October 11, 2014 (transcript).
Jones, Bill. “Josh Freese of Devo and the Vandals Is the Blue Collar Freelance Drummer to the Stars.” Noisey, August 21, 2014.
Kandell, Steve. “Billie Joe Armstrong Meets Paul Westerberg.” SPIN, April 2010.
Kaufman, Gil. “Legendary Producer Joins Perfect’s Tommy Stinson.” MTV.com, November 11, 1997.
Kuipers, Dean. “Oh the Angst. Oh the Sales.” Los Angeles Times, July 7, 2002.
Liebrock, Rachel. “Paul Westerberg.” Pop Culture Press, Fall 2002.
Lindeen, Laurie. Petal Pusher: A Rock and Roll Cinderella Story. New York: Atria, 2007.
Masley, Ed. “The Replacements’ Tommy Stinson Talks Reunion.” Arizona Republic, September 26, 2014.
Moon, Tom. “A Different Drummer Now Marches to His Own Tunes.” Philadelphia Inquirer, May, 24, 1992.
Nelson, Chris. “‘Perfect’ Direction for Ex-Replacement Tommy Stinson.” MTV.com, March 20, 1998.
Nicholson, Kris. “Replacements: We’re Over. Forget About It. Get a Life.” yeah, yeah, yeah, issue 10, 1997.
Philips, Chuck. “R.E.M., Warner Records Sign $80-Million Deal.” Los Angeles Times, August 25, 1996.
Riemenschneider, Chris. “Westerberg Goes from ‘Folker’ Back to Rocker.” Minneapolis Star-Tribune, November 5, 2004.
Robbins, Ira. Interview with Paul Westerberg, May 1, 1993 (transcript).
Rosen, Craig. “Paul Westerberg’s ‘Eventually’ Is Now.” Billboard, March 16, 1996.
Royston, Reggie. “Replacements Reunion? Stinson Says Westerberg Blew It.” Saint Paul Pioneer Press, November 14, 2002.
Sullivan, Andy. “Song Sung Slim: In His Own Words, Slim Dunlap Tells It Like It Is.” The Squealer, June–July 1997.
Valania, Jonathan. Interview with Paul Westerberg, April 30, 2002 (transcript).
Vaziri, Aidin. “Q&A with Paul Westerberg.” San Francisco Chronicle, February 28, 1999.
Walsh, Jim. “Bob Stinson’s an Ex-’Mat but He’s Nobody’s Doormat.” Saint Paul Pioneer Press, September 19, 1993.
Westerberg, Paul. “Beyond the Box Tops.” New York Times, March 20, 2010.
Wilding, Philip. “Interview: Paul Westerberg.” Classic Rock, November 2004.
Wilonsky, Robert. “No Mere Replacement.” Dallas Observer, May 11, 1995.
———. “Bastard of Middle Age.” Dallas Observer, February 11, 1999.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Trouble Boys is the result of nearly a decade of planning, research, and work.
One doesn’t reach the end of a labor like that without a very long list of people to thank.
First and foremost, to Paul Westerberg and Tommy Stinson: I am indebted to you, for the music, the trust, and everything else you’ve given me. I sincerely hope your story together will continue well past these pages.
It cannot be emphasized enough: this book simply would not exist but for the dedicated efforts of Peter Jesperson and Darren Hill.
Peter made crucial introductions, shared his personal archives, and submitted to years of often difficult questions. He and his wife, Jennifer, took me into their home and hearts. Peter is the ultimate believer, and I hope he feels his faith in me was not misplaced.
From my first conversation with him in 2006, Darren saw the value in this project and, crucially, helped Paul Westerberg see it as well. It’s worth noting that in addition to managing Paul and helping bring about the Replacements reunion, Darren also supervised the return of the New York Dolls and the resurrection of Roky Erickson. Put simply: Darren is a friend to rock-and-roll and all who love it. But more than that, he’s someone I call friend, which is a privilege.
Michael Hill served as the Replacements’ A&R man at Warner Bros. for the better part of seven years. As if that weren’t penance enough for one lifetime, he had to endure my questioning presence for a further seven years. Through it all he showed incredible kindness, patience, and understanding for which I will be eternally grateful.
To my agent Erin Hosier, I owe so much. For taking me on, for guiding a first-time author through an unfamiliar process, and for keeping me from the proverbial ledge on the many occasions I was ready to jump—mere thanks don’t seem enough.
Ben Schafer at Da Capo was the first to express interest in this project and was steadfast through the many twists, turns, and years of delays it took to bring it to fruition. He fought for me and for this book at so many critical junctures that I can’t even remember. But his editorial stewardship and personal support will never be forgotten.
To the Stinson family: I am humbled that you allowed me to tell this story as it needed to be. I owe deep thanks to Anita Stinson-Kurth, Lonnie Stinson, and Daune (Earle) Stinson for sharing what they had every right to keep private. I’m also indebted to Anita’s husband, Tom Kurth, as well as to Lisa Stinson and Ruby Stinson. For hospitality in Hudson, I am grateful to Emily Jane Roberts and Tallulah Stinson. In Arizona, Carleen (Krietler) Stinson shared intimate memories that allowed me a better understanding of Bob Stinson.
Everyone has Slim stories, so here’s mine: When I contacted Bob Dunlap about this book and told him I was coming to Minneapolis, his first question was to ask me—a total stranger and likely nuisance—if I needed a ride from the airport. In the wake of his stroke and the subsequent public tributes, it became clear that my experience was not unique, that he had demonstrated a lifetime of similar kindness to all he encountered. Watching his wife Chrissie care for him these last few years has shown me the true meaning of love. They are an inspiration.
Mary Lucia is a broadcaster of the highest order and someone who intuitively understands the beautiful drama of rock-and-roll. She provided tea and sympathy and valued friendship when it was most needed. Thanks, Looch, I owe ya.
My conversations with Jim “Spike” Boquist were always informal, but also invaluable in helping shape this work. An artist, a philosopher, and a man of the road, Jim is the sort of fella I’d like to be when I grow up.
I must thank Lori Bizer Leighton for taking the time to recall her life with Paul Westerberg. I am also appreciative of Laurie Lindeen, who was always gracious in welcoming me into her home.
Though Chris Mars did not wish to participate in this project, I am thankful to him and his wife Sally for the courtesies they did extend. I hope I have represented them fairly in this story. The same holds true for Bill Sullivan, who I came to know only a little, but appreciated greatly.
Paul Stark was instrumental in this project, not just in sharing memories but in helping digitize the Twin/Tone and Replacements archives. A hearty thanks to the other Twin/Tone alumni who offered help: David Ayers, Blake Gumprecht, Chris Osgood, and especially Abbie Kane.
Russ Rieger and Gary Hobbib spent many hours on the phone and in person discussing their experiences with the Replacements. This book would not be what it is without their time and contributions. So too George Regis, who recalled his eighteen years of service to the band and Paul with a candor and humor that was deeply appreciated.
The key to the world of Warner Bros. was given to me by my friend, the estimable Bob Merlis. Special thanks are due also to Seymour Stein, Lenny Waronker, Howie Klein, Steven Baker, Charlie Springer, Bill Bentley, Mary Melia, Sandy Alouette, and Cathy Lincoln. Jo Lenardi and Randy Skin
ner started out as interview subjects but have become dear friends. I can happily say the same about Julie Panebianco, who shared files, photos, contacts, and insights into the band that helped me along the path tremendously.
I managed to speak with nearly everyone who ever served as part of a Replacements crew. I owe them all a debt, but particularly Monty Lee Wilkes, Carl Davino, Rick Marino, Jim Runge, Andy Proudfoot, Lou Santacroce, Casey Macpherson, Jeff Ousley, Mike Bosley, and Scott Esbeck. In Jim “Velvet” Sullivan, whose support extends far beyond this book, I have found a true pal.
I had the pleasure of making the acquaintance of Tommy Stinson’s manager Ben Perlstein midway through this project. Since that moment, Benny has been an indispensable ally and a swell guy to boot.
I was privileged to have so many of my journalistic colleagues volunteer tapes, transcripts, and information that added depth to this work. My sincerest thanks to Jonathan Valania, Matthew Fritch, and Eric Miller at Magnet magazine, RJ Smith, Bruce Davis, Holly George-Warren, John Lightfoot, Emily Goldberg, Chris Morris, David Fricke, Jim DeRogatis, Andrew Earles, Russell Hall, Ted Drozdowski, Fred Mills, Rob Tannenbaum and Craig Marks, Caryn Rose, Mike Hoeger, Tony Lonetree, Barney Hoskyns, Bill Flanagan, Greg Kot, Charles Cross, Tony Fletcher, Patrick Berkery, Robert Wilonsky, Jack Partain, Jason Gross, Brett Milano, Roy Trakin, Ira Robbins, David N. Meyer, Charles Aaron, and Steve Birmingham.
I must single out Bill Holdship here. Though telling the Replacements’ story ultimately became my charge, in many ways this was Bill’s book to write. Under such circumstances, few would’ve been as generous in sharing their materials and memories. But Bill is a rare sort. For the better part of two decades he’s been in my life as a mentor, colleague, and most of all friend.
No band has greater champions in the online world than Kathy Shine, of the Man Without Ties website, and Matt Tomich of The Skyway Internet Mailing List. Replacements fans, myself included, owe Kathy and Matt for their selfless efforts over the years in helping foster a sense of community. Also, a tip of the hat to John Davidson for compiling The Replacements Bible, Brett Hale for creating the “We Love the ’Mats” Facebook page, and Jim Clarke for his work with the “Bob Stinson’s Ghost” YouTube page.
My ability to research the collected live recordings of the Replacements was made possible by the kindness of Ralph Bryant and the MatsTapes Collective and Preservation Society: Rob Earp, Remi Williams, Trace Hull, Rene Greblo, Charles Ford, Craig “C9” Cholette, Dana Nordaune, Dustin Henderson, Max Warden, and Bill Reuf.
