The Mid Century Vault

Currently Playing: 046 Star Magazine (1973): The Controversial "Groupie" Magazine for Teens

Before Sassy or Rolling Stone dominated youth culture, there was Star Magazine—a short-lived, highly controversial 1973 publication that captured the peak of the Glam Rock era. Host Philip Mershon explores why Star is considered the "white whale" for vintage magazine collectors. We look at its obsession with being "Foxy," and its refusal to talk down to its young female audience. While other magazines talked about holding hands, Star was giving 14-year-olds the keys to the VIP room at Rodney Bingenheimer’s English Disco. What you’ll learn in this episode: The History of Star: How a wholesome publisher (Hot Rod, Guns & Ammo) accidentally created a counter-culture icon. The "Foxy" Philosophy: How Star used the Women's Power Movement to market rock and roll lifestyle to young girls. The Scandal: A look at the "Sunset Strip Groupies" feature that horrified parents and led to the magazine’s immediate termination. Olga Korbutt: The strange story of the Russian gymnast's "Foxy Makeover." If you'd like to further support my work, here's my buy me a coffee link: https://coff.ee/philipmershon For more Mid Century Vault adventures, just go here: https://www.youtube.com/user/philipmershon New episodes release every Friday and Sunday. Please watch videos to the end, this really helps as much as liking and commenting, which, of course, helps like crazy. Be sure to subscribe and become part of our new community, thanks! #glamrock #groupies #popculturehistory #nostalgia