Chris Epting is the author of 30 travel/history books, including James Dean Died Here (Santa Monica Press), Roadside Baseball (McGraw Hill), Hello It's Me, Dispatches From a Pop Culture Junkie (Santa Monica Press) and many others. He is also an award-winning travel writer and has contributed articles for such publications as the Los Angeles Times, Westways and Travel + Lesiure magazine, among other publications. In addition, Chris is a veteran music journalist and recently co-wrote Def Leppard's Phil Collen's memoir, Adrenalized, and the John Oates Memoir Change of Seasons. Originally from New York, Chris now lives in Huntington Beach, California with his wife and their two children.
The History (and Future) of the Sunset Strip’s Viper Room
When actor Johnny Depp launched The Viper Room in 1993, it automatically became one of the hottest places on the Sunset Strip. But few people realize just how historic its location at 8852 Sunset really is.
Jim Morrison’s Favorite Hangouts in West Hollywood
If Jim Morrison were alive today, there’s no doubt the Lizard King would still be hanging around West Hollywood. Some of the most memorable music moments of Morrison’s life happened in local establishments—and a few of…
Summer on Sunset: History of the Sunset Strip
Since its inception in the 1920s, the portion of Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood — bordered on the west by Sierra Drive and Havenhurst Drive to the east — has evolved as both the true dream…
The Sunset Strip’s Historic Rock ‘n’ Roll Billboards
It all started back in the 1960s when Elektra, a record label under Warner Music Group, noticed how effective billboards were along the Las Vegas strip.
Gone But Not Forgotten in West Hollywood
Certain iconic establishments along the Strip may be gone, but their legacies still help shape the mystique and lore of the area. Without them, the Strip wouldn’t be what it is today.