‘…band members wanted: Must be into the Beatles, Buffalo Springfield and the Byrds…‘ This ad, placed in Los Angeles The Recycler, a classified newspaper used to sell cars, pets, stereo equipment, etc., was the instrumental ingredient that helped launch the career of the then soon-to-be singer/guitarist for the Bengals – Susanna Hoffs. Combining an avant-garde mélange of pop and rock, the band was to become one of the most popular precursors of the “riot grrl” movement. Despite their success, the constant threat of being taken more seriously for their appearance than their music and over-exposure by FM radio and the video channels caused the Bengals to disband in 1989. Subsequently, Susanna Hoffs moved on to pursue a successful solo career as a singer as well as an actress.
Welcome to Michael D. Vogel’s online portfolio. I am a Los Angeles-based music journalist/content creator, and self-professed music-fanatic/radio-aholic. With more than 20 years of experience in multiple facets of the music industry including; music programming/air talent for terrestrial and internet radio as well as record label artist promotion, I have a finger on the pulse of what's new and under the radar in the emerging music scene. Areas of specific expertise include, but not limited to: rock (heritage, mainstream, heavy metal/hard rock and alternative), pop and adult contemporary, as well as radio, pop culture, sports, exercise and politics. I am applying my passion for music as a freelance writer for the Examiner as National Music Examiner (Examiner.com) in addition to West Coast Editor for FreeGotham (FreeGotham.com). Find me at michael@vogelism.com. 