Rock & Roll: The Devil's Diversion

by Bob Larson

FOREWORD

[...] Above all, I pray that the purpose of this book will be plainly understood: Christ is the positive alternative to what youth seeks in rock and roll music.

BOB LARSON
Box 26438
Denver, Colorado 80226

Genres: Music, Humor

Paperback

First published January 1, 1967

About the author

Bob Larson is an American radio and television evangelist, and a pastor of Spiritual Freedom Church in Phoenix, Arizona. Larson has authored numerous books critical of rock music and Satanism.

Reviews

[Marvin · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'm rating this based on my reading from 1968 so I can't be totally sure of the accuracy but I still think this book qualifies as my silliest read of all times. Phoenix based Christian lunatic Bob Larson believes that Rock & Roll is evil and will invite demons into your body. He pretty much believes anything will get you possessed but especially rock and roll. He claims to have been a songwriter of the devil's music in his past before he saw the light. There are a couple examples of his songwriting ability in this book which leads to the logical conclusion that he is envious of real songwriters and is possessed by sour grapes.

I probably should rate this higher than one star solely for laughs but the danger of anyone taking this vitriolic anthem to ignorance seriously gets it the lowest rating.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book charts the downfall of modern rock from the glorious heights of "moon and june" classics to devil worshiping mod-rock and psychedelic head warps. A must read if only for this embittered Christian popster's diatribes against Frank Zappa and Eric Burdon of Animals fame.

[Deborah Culmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

C'mon give it five stars! It's freaking HILARIOUS! A family member bought it for me in 1971 when I was visiting in W. OK one summer with some of my albums (Jefferson Airplane, Leon Russell & the Shelter People, Janis, Doors, etc.). It was the source of much hilarity between me and my friends for a year after. I still have my copy.

[Robert Andres · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good for a laugh. None of the author's predictions came true. No second coming, no end of days, and rock music isn't contributing to society's downfall. He's very aware of the African influence and mentions it often (cough racist cough) and too often mentions that he notices something to prove his point especially in young girls (cough pervert cough).

[Daniel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Several important points. Particularly regarding the relationship of modern rock and roll gyrations to pagan dance.