Melissa Auf der Maur is hitting bookstores nationwide to promote her debut memoir, a move that could reignite interest in ’90s alt‑rock and set the stage for future reunions.
The former Smashing Pumpkins and Hole bassist is launching a book tour that begins March 17 at New York’s Strand Bookstore. The memoir, titled Even the Good Girls Will Cry: A ‘90s Rock Memoir, chronicles her rise from Montreal’s underground scene to international stardom.
From Bass Lines to Book Lines: A Brief History
- Early 1990s: Worked as a cassette DJ and ticket girl, witnessing Nirvana, Jane’s Addiction, and Sonic Youth shows.
- 1994: Joined Hole for the Live Through This world tour after Billy Corgan recommended her to Courtney Love.
- Late 1990s‑2000s: Recorded with The Smashing Pumpkins, pursued solo projects, and became a visual artist.
Her memoir lands on March 17—the same day she turns 54—receiving early praise from Parade and a glowing review in Publishers Weekly.
What the Tour Says About the Current Alt‑Rock Landscape
The decision to bypass traditional concert venues in favor of bookstores, galleries, and cultural spaces signals a shift. Fans are no longer just looking for live music; they crave the personal narratives behind the songs. By positioning the memoir in intimate settings, Auf der Maur taps into a growing appetite for behind‑the‑scenes storytelling.
Industry analysts note that memoir tours have become lucrative for legacy acts, providing fresh revenue streams while keeping the artist’s brand relevant. This approach also fuels social media buzz, as fans share photos and quotes from the events—evident in the enthusiastic comments on her Instagram announcement.
Fan‑Driven Theories and Future Possibilities
The tour has ignited speculation across fan forums. Some argue the memoir’s success could pave the way for a documentary series on ’90s alt‑rock, while others hope for a reunion tour with Hole’s original lineup. The narrative thread of “unfinished business” resonates, especially after Auf der Maur’s candid reflections on the era’s “corporate takeover.”
Tour Dates at a Glance
- March 17 – New York, NY – Strand Bookstore (Conversation with Naomi Fry)
- March 19 – Hudson, NY – Basilica Hudson with Golden Notebook
- March 20 – Toronto, ON – Wavelength Music
- March 21 – Toronto, ON – Art Gallery of Ontario
- March 24 – Chicago, IL – Chicago Humanities, The Three Top Lounge
- March 28 – Los Angeles, CA – Dynasty Typewriter with Skylight Books
- March 30 – Montreal, QC – Society for Arts and Technology (Conversation with Catherine Pogonat)
- April 7‑10 – UK – venues to be announced
Social Media Pulse
Comments range from “my inner teen is gonna get so healed” to heartfelt messages from small‑town fans eager to host her. The organic engagement underscores the enduring affection for ’90s alt‑rock culture.
Why This Matters for the Industry
Auf der Maur’s tour demonstrates that legacy artists can successfully pivot to literary promotion, creating cross‑media opportunities. It also validates the market for memoirs that blend personal memoir with cultural history—a formula that could inspire similar projects from other era‑defining musicians.
As the tour rolls out, watch for potential partnerships with streaming platforms, limited‑edition vinyl releases, or even a companion podcast. Each new development will further cement the memoir’s role as a catalyst for reviving the spirit of the ‘90s alt‑rock movement.
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