Strange Highways Music & Publishing

Category: Blog

  • The Thrill Ride Continues

    The Thrill Ride Continues

    Stack 19

    In this episode, Jeff reads his latest post, “The Thrill Ride Continues” — episode 19 of his ongoing memoir. It’s about 1990 and 1991, when Red Red Groove was hitting its stride, the DJ career was evolving, and the night a rope, a long-haired stranger, and a very specific comment about legs led to one of the best shows Jeff ever played. Plus, the story of a venue owner who called the cops on his own show, and the first quiet signs that something at home was about to change.

    Click here for the full article on Substack

    Jeff Elder Isn’t Real is a Substack by writer and musician Jeff Elder, a place where the curtain is half open. Part memoir, part creative process, part cultural observation. Warm, honest, and a little strange. Just like life.

    Subscribe to Jeff Elder Isn’t Real on Substack for new posts every week, including audio versions of most every essay.

  • I’m A Star Music Video Arrives

    I’m A Star Music Video Arrives

    It’s here.

    Earlier this year, Stu Starr arrived. Now, after his MTV debut today, he’s sure to be even more famous — just like the Jackson family!

    The official music video for I’m A Star is now live on YouTube. I’m A Star is Stu Starr’s breakout hit — the song that launches him into the spotlight and sets everything in motion.

    If you haven’t read the book yet, Starr Love is the story of Stu Starr, a performer who buys into the myth of fame and gets swallowed by his own legend. It’s satire, it’s dark, it’s funny, and unfortunately it feels more like a documentary every day.

    I made this video myself — yes, that there’s some of that AI video you’ve heard tale about and yes, it’s a little cheesy. But honestly? Stu wouldn’t have it any other way. Fair warning: there’s a barista in the opening who has a thing about her little jug. We don’t judge here. Well, not about that. It’s what makes AI fun.

    This video is for Stu — and for everyone who knows they’re a star too. Even if nobody else has figured it out yet.

    Baby, baby, baby — you’re a star. Give it a watch, share it if it moves you, and if you haven’t picked up the book yet, now is a great time.

    Spread the Starr Love. 🌟

    Coming Soon

    While you’re here, a couple of things worth putting on your radar. A brand new remix of I’m A Star is coming in July, along with the Starr Love audiobook — narrated by me, recorded in a questionable motel on I-20 in Texas, with occasional bird cameos. More details on both as we get closer.

    A Note for This Weekend

    One more thing. It’s a holiday weekend here in the US, and for the first time since launching Jeff Elder Isn’t Real, I’m taking the weekend off. No Substack post this Saturday. This is part of a new rule I’m trying to stick to — no working on holidays. First time I’ve actually followed through on that, so we’ll see how it goes.

    To everyone reading this, happy holiday weekend. Spend time with the people who matter most, get some rest, and remember that life is too short to be working around the clock. So I keep telling myself, anyway.

    See you next week!

    Jeff

  • No Gift Refused

    No Gift Refused

    Stack 18

    In this episode, it’s about the cloud nine years of 1989 and 1990, when everything was running full speed at once. The DJ career was clicking. Red Red Groove was building real momentum. And one night at an art gallery called Fascination Street, Trent Reznor walked in and changed the trajectory of the band. Nine Inch Nails, Until December, Consolidated, and beyond. Plus, the story of how a bottle of tequila and a fistful of hair became an accidental lesson in industrial scene survival.


    Click here for the full article on Substack

    Jeff Elder Isn’t Real is a Substack by writer and musician Jeff Elder, a place where the curtain is half open. Part memoir, part creative process, part cultural observation. Warm, honest, and a little strange. Just like life.

    Subscribe to Jeff Elder Isn’t Real on Substack for free, new posts every week, including audio versions of most every essay. Jeff Elder Isn’t Real also broadcasts as a podcast available on most major providers.

  • Special Orange Juice

    Special Orange Juice

    Stack 17

    In this episode, Jeff reads his latest post, “Special Orange Juice” — episode 17 of his ongoing memoir. It’s about the winter of 1988, a bottle of champagne, and how he wound up living in a bar owner’s house without ever really deciding to. It’s about Troy, John, the strange domestic logic of 24/7 club life, meeting Glenn and Alex from The Village People upstairs at The Max, and the first time he met his worst best friend. It’s also about the night Red Red Groove played its very first show.

    Click here for the full article on Substack

    Jeff Elder Isn’t Real is a Substack by writer and musician Jeff Elder, a place where the curtain is half open. Part memoir, part creative process, part cultural observation. Warm, honest, and a little strange. Just like life.

    Subscribe to Jeff Elder Isn’t Real on Substack for free, new posts every week, including audio versions of most every essay. Jeff Elder Isn’t Real also broadcasts as a podcast available on most major providers.

  • I’ve Got Believers… Believing Me

    I’ve Got Believers… Believing Me

    Stack 16

    In this episode, Jeff reads his latest post, “I’ve Got Believers… Believing Me” — episode 16 of his ongoing memoir. It’s about the night in the fall of 1988 when Richard showed up to The Max too drunk to stand, got fired two minutes before opening, and Jeff found himself alone in the DJ booth with a wall of records that weren’t his and absolutely no business being there. It’s about practicing in an empty club until something clicked, earning a permanent spot, and a moment of quiet kindness from a stranger that he’s never forgotten.

    Click here for the full article on Substack

    Jeff Elder Isn’t Real is a Substack by writer and musician Jeff Elder, a place where the curtain is half open. Part memoir, part creative process, part cultural observation. Warm, honest, and a little strange. Just like life.

    Subscribe to Jeff Elder Isn’t Real on Substack for free, new posts every week, including audio versions of most every essay. Jeff Elder Isn’t Real also broadcasts as a podcast available on most major providers.

  • Starr Love Audiobook Round 2: The Patel Motel

    Starr Love Audiobook Round 2: The Patel Motel

    Stack 15

    In this episode, Jeff writes live from a cheap, slightly sketchy roadside stop on I-20 in Texas where he holed up for three days to record the audiobook version of Starr Love. He talks about why the dogs made the first attempt impossible, why he chose a fifty-dollar motel over a proper studio, the MacGyver-level problem solving required just to get the gear running, and why John Waters is the reason he decided to narrate this one himself.

    Click here for the full article on Substack

    Jeff Elder Isn’t Real is a Substack by writer and musician Jeff Elder, a place where the curtain is half open. Part memoir, part creative process, part cultural observation. Warm, honest, and a little strange. Just like life.

    Subscribe to Jeff Elder Isn’t Real on Substack for free, new posts every week, including audio versions of most every essay. Jeff Elder Isn’t Real also broadcasts as a podcast available on most major providers.

  • Welcome to the 90s (Apparently, I Have a Podcast Now)

    Welcome to the 90s (Apparently, I Have a Podcast Now)

    Welcome to the 90s (Yes, I Have a Podcast Now)

    I’ve started a podcast.
    Well… let me back that up.

    A month or so ago, I started recording audio versions of my Substack articles — Jeff Elder Isn’t Real. It was simple: I wrote a thing, posted the thing, then I read the thing into a microphone. Easy.

    But now?
    Now I’ve expanded distribution so it hits most of the major podcast platforms.
    (Except Apple Music. More on that later. Let’s just say: headache – not worth the effort.)

    So yes. I guess I have a podcast. Welcome to the 90s. Or the 2000s. Or whenever podcasts became a thing. Time isn’t real.

    Why I’m Doing This (Even Though I Write Books)

    The reason is embarrassingly simple:
    I prefer listening over reading.

    What?
    Yeah, I know — I write books. I write essays. I write all the time.

    But I also stare at text on a screen for most of my waking hours. So, when I want to actually enjoy a story, I prefer listening to it. Because while my eyes are tired, my brain may not be. Follow me?

    So if you’re like me — someone who loves stories but occasionally wants to give your eyeballs a break — this podcast is for you.

    What the Podcast Actually Is

    The podcast is called Jeff Elder Isn’t Real, and it mirrors the Substack of the same name. Most weeks, I post a new essay on Substack, and now you can listen to me read it wherever you prefer to listen to things.

    It’s still free.
    It’s still me.
    It’s just… portable.

    You can now listen on Spotify, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Pocket Casts, and all the smaller apps those platforms feed into. And of course, you can still listen on Substack or through the Substack app if you like to keep everything in one place.

    Apple Music will happen eventually. Probably. Maybe. We’ll see.

    Where We Are Now

    I started recording audio at Episode 9. We’re on Episode 13 now. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be backfilling Episodes 1–8 so the whole archive is available in audio form.

    Each episode is around 10 minutes or less.
    Short enough to listen while making coffee, walking to your car, hiding from your responsibilities, or pretending to fold laundry.

    Or, if you’re a binger, you can listen once a month and play them back‑to‑back. That’s the beauty of podcasts — you can digest them however you want.

    What This Thing Is

    Jeff Elder Isn’t Real is a Substack podcast written and read by me — a writer of sorts, musician, and general DIY creative hermit. It’s a place where the curtain is half open. Part memoir, part creative process, part cultural observation.

    Warm, honest, and a little strange.
    Just like life.

    Where to Follow

    Follow wherever you listen, or subscribe on Substack to get everything in one place.

    As the ambulance chaser on TV says, call me right now! Well, here are the podcast links – Don’t get caught in an accident – CLICK ME RIGHT NOW!!! – You, too, could be missing out on thousands owed to you – FOLLOW ME RIGHT NOW!!!!

    Amazon Music

    Spotify

    YouTube Podcasts

    Pocket Casts

    Substack (podcast)

    Substack (main article page)

    New episode arrives tomorrow.

    Thanks for being here!

    Jeff

  • Revealing My Dream Cast for Starr Love

    Revealing My Dream Cast for Starr Love

    When I started Starr Search, it wasn’t really a contest or a vote so much as a playful way to let readers peek inside my head. These characters have lived with me, and so have the actors I’ve pictured playing them. Starr Search simply gave me a fun framework to share those mental snapshots — the faces, voices, and energies that shaped how I wrote each scene.

    Now that the series is wrapped, it feels like the right moment to reveal the full dream cast that has been with me since the beginning.

    ⭐ The Starr Love Dream Cast

    • Stu Starr — Frankie Grande
    • Mariel Starr — Barbara Bel Geddes
    • Steve Starr — Kyle Chandler
    • Sterling Vaughn — Simon Le Bon
    • Rowdy Ranger — Joe Exotic
    • The President — Alec Baldwin
    • Lance Robb — Trae Crowder
    • Stu’s Attorney — Jon Hamm
    • Stacy Perry — Heidi Gardner
    • Judge — Sam Waterston
    • Prosecuting Attorney — Angela Bassett
    • Sherri — Ricki Lake
    • Julian Rainwater — John Waters
    • Vicky — Gabourey Sidibe

    How These Faces Shaped the Story

    Every writer has their own way of building a world. For me, seeing the characters as real people — with specific expressions, mannerisms, and emotional textures — helps me develop how they move through the story. If you read my post on Substack, you’d know that the actual characters weren’t inspired by these actors. But it is a great way to get a visual of what was going on in my mind with them.

    • Frankie Grande has Stu’s chaotic sparkle and delusional charm.
    • Simon Le Bon embodies Sterling’s effortless cool.
    • Joe Exotic captures Rowdy’s unhinged devotion.
    • Trae Crowder grounds Lance with humor, heart and handsomeness.
    • Angela Bassett and Sam Waterston bring weight to the courtroom.
    • Barbara Bel Geddes and Kyle Chandler shaped the Starr family’s emotional core and, come on, if Barbara could handle JR Ewing as a son, Stu would be a breeze.
    • John Waters as Julian Rainwater? That one explains itself.

    These weren’t random choices — they were emotional anchors based on the characters’ personalities.

    Now I’m Curious…

    When you read the book, did any of these actors match the versions you saw in your mind? Or did your imagination cast someone completely different?

    I’d love to hear who you pictured.

    Jeff

  • Starr Love Is Officially Here

    Starr Love Is Officially Here

    Today marks a milestone I’ve been working toward for a very long time. My new book, Starr Love, is officially out in the wild — available now in both Kindle and print — and I’m thrilled to finally share it with you. Alongside the book, I’m also releasing a companion single, “I’m A Star” by Stu Starr, which ties directly into the story’s universe. Both projects go live today, and it feels surreal to see them come together at last.

    A Story Decades in the Making

    This book has a long history. I first came up with the idea in the 90s, when my friend Joe Christ had shifted from making music to making indie films. I originally built the concept as something to pitch to him, my band would do the soundtrack, blah blah blah. Life, of course, had other plans. Joe passed away before I ever finished it, and the project sat unfinished for years.

    In many ways, Starr Love became my way of finally completing that idea. If you’re familiar with Joe’s work, imagine something he might have co‑produced with John Waters: a strange, funny, slightly chaotic look at the quest for fame, filtered through the lens of someone who has spent a lifetime around music, performance, and the people who chase the spotlight.

    Building Stu Starr’s World

    One of the most enjoyable parts of writing this book was creating the world around Stu Starr — a fictional pop star with big dreams, questionable decisions, and a universe full of real‑life echoes. I had a blast weaving in little nods to places and moments from my own past.

    Readers familiar with my hometown, Tulsa, will spot a few recognizable locations: record stores, restaurants, The Max, and other pieces of the city’s musical DNA. And for my fellow Duran Duran fans, you may notice a wink or two in the form of Sterling Vaughn and his band, Tiger Baby. Then, there’s Julian Rainwater and ol’ Rowdy… I’ll leave those two to your own imagination.

    To bring Stu’s world to life even further, I recorded a companion single, “I’m A Star,” which releases today as well. It’s a fun extension of the book’s tone — part satire, part homage, part glitter‑covered chaos.

    What’s Coming Next

    The release of Starr Love is just the beginning. Over the next few months, I’ll be expanding Stu Starr’s universe even further.

    Audiobook (Coming Soon)

    An audiobook edition is currently in production and will be released in the next few months (date TBA). I’ll be narrating it myself, which, I’m sure, will be its own wild and rewarding experience.

    Extended Dance Remix EP

    To keep the legend alive, I’ll also be releasing an extended dance remix EP of “I’m A Star” to coincide with the audiobook launch. Think club‑ready, glitter‑covered chaos — very Stu Starr. Stay tuned!

    Wider Ebook Availability

    Right now, the ebook is exclusive to Amazon for the initial 90‑day launch period. After that window closes, Starr Love will also be available on additional platforms including Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, and more.

    Where to Read and Listen

    Starr Love is available now on Amazon. I kept the Kindle price low, and it’s also included in Kindle Unlimited if that’s your preferred way to read.

    Book Link:
    Kindle & Print Version from Amazon

    Companion Single – “I’m A Star” by Stu Starr – Available from all major streaming services, including:
    Spotify
    Amazon Music

    A Small Favor, If You Enjoy It

    If you do pick up the book and enjoy it, an honest Amazon review would help more than you know. Early reviews are a huge part of how Amazon’s system recommends books to new readers, and every single one makes a difference. Same with the song.

    Thank you for taking the time to check out this project. It’s been a long road getting here, and I’m excited to finally share Stu Starr’s world with you — and even more excited for what’s still to come.

    Jeff

  • New Substack Page

    New Substack Page

    Just a quick note to let you know I’ve launched a new Substack page called Jeff Elder Isn’t Real.

    It’s a place where I’ll be telling my story—pieces of the road, the music, the odd corners of life, and whatever else decides to wander in. Think of it as a companion space to everything I’m already doing here, but with a little more room to stretch out and talk.

    I’ve set it up with the free subscription option, so you don’t have to pay a thing to follow along. If you enjoy the work I do, I’d love for you to join me over there, read along, and jump into the conversation.

    You can find it on Substack anytime. I hope to see you there.

    Jeff Elder Isn’t Real | Substack

    Jeff

  • New Single Release: “I’m A Star” by Stu Starr — Straight From the Prison Yard

    New Single Release: “I’m A Star” by Stu Starr — Straight From the Prison Yard

    Every once in a while, a project comes along that feels so strange, so chaotic, and so unexpectedly electric that you can’t help but follow it wherever it leads. Today, I get to share one of those moments.

    I’m thrilled to announce the debut single from rising underground personality Stu Starr — a track called “I’m A Star.” And yes, the rumors are true: this song was recorded from inside the state prison.

    Stu’s cellmate, Rowdy, sent me his vocals through monitored phone lines, raw and unfiltered, straight from the yard. My job was to take that energy — the bravado, the delusion, the charisma, the sheer force of will — and shape it into a full studio production. What came out the other side is a high‑energy dance track that somehow manages to be both chaotic and irresistible. It’s Stu at his most determined, declaring his fame long before the world has caught up.

    Early download access is available now through my Bandcamp page:

    I’m A Star – Early Access:
    https://jeffelder.bandcamp.com/track/im-a-star

    The single will be released worldwide on all major streaming services on February 14, 2026, alongside the release of Starr Love, a book I wrote featuring Stu Starr.

    Here’s what Stu had to say about the track:

    “They tried to lock me up, but they couldn’t lock up my destiny. I’ve always known the world was waiting for me — now they finally get to hear what a real star sounds like.”
    — Stu Starr

    And from my side of the studio:

    “Working with Stu is unlike anything I’ve ever done. Rowdy sends me these raw, chaotic phone recordings of him from inside, and somehow there’s always a spark in them. My job is just to shape that spark into something the world can dance to.”
    — Producer, Jeff Elder

    This whole project has been a wild ride — part music experiment, part character study, part world‑building fever dream — and I’m excited to finally share it with you.

    More updates soon as we get closer to release day.

    Jeff

  • Announcing the Release of Starr Love – Available for Pre‑Order Now

    Announcing the Release of Starr Love – Available for Pre‑Order Now

    Announcing the Release of Starr Love — Available for Pre‑Order Now

    I’m excited to share some news: my new book, Starr Love, officially arrives on February 14th, 2026 in both Kindle and paperback editions (audiobook to follow this Summer). After years of shaping this story — its humor, its heart, its glitter‑coated delusions — it’s finally ready to meet readers.

    Pre‑order is now available!

    👉 Pre‑Order from Amazon: Starr Love

    About the Book

    Starr Love is a darkly comic psychological tale about fame, fantasy, and the stories we tell ourselves to survive. At its center is Stu Starr, a lifelong dreamer who has always believed he was destined for something bigger. The world never quite agreed — but that’s never stopped him from rewriting every moment of his life into a story where he eventually shines.

    With rhinestones polished and cape in place, Stu is convinced the spotlight is finally his. But as the line between fantasy and reality begins to warp, what emerges is a story that’s unsettling, funny, and painfully familiar in a culture obsessed with being seen.

    Set partly against the backdrop of Tulsa’s music scene in the 1980s, the story taps into the raw ambition that fuels performers everywhere — from garage bands to bar‑band veterans. Readers who love offbeat, boundary‑pushing fiction, dark humor, or camp‑infused storytelling will feel right at home.

    A Satire Wrapped in Sequins

    Described as “a portrait of delusion in sequins,” Starr Love offers a sharp, satirical look at:

    • celebrity worship
    • political spectacle
    • the cultural hunger for attention
    • the fragile psychology behind wanting to matter

    It’s a book for anyone who’s ever chased a dream, questioned their own narrative, or watched the spotlight burn a little too bright.

    The tagline says it best:
    “Fame is a fantasy. Delusion is forever.”

    Pre‑Order Today

    If you’d like to support the book — or just want to be among the first to read it — you can pre‑order below:

    👉 Pre‑Order from Amazon: Starr Love

    Your early support means the world and helps the book reach more readers when it launches.

    Stay Connected

    For updates, behind‑the‑scenes notes, and future releases, keep an eye on strangehighways.com and thanks, as always, for being part of this journey – Stu Starr is almost ready for his close‑up – I have some fun ideas that we’ll be playing with as a part of that.

    Happy Friday,

    Jeff

  • “Fame, Fear, and Funhouse Mirrors” — A Short Interview with Jeff Elder, Author of Starr Love

    “Fame, Fear, and Funhouse Mirrors” — A Short Interview with Jeff Elder, Author of Starr Love

    “Fame, Fear, and Funhouse Mirrors” — A Short Interview with Jeff Elder, Author of Starr Love

    Interview by Mic Copiloti (MC)

    MC: Jeff, Starr Love is a novel that feels both intimate and unsettling in the best way. For readers who haven’t encountered it yet, how would you describe what the story is about at its core?

    Jeff: Starr Love is the story of a wanna‑be rock star gone wrong. It takes us through his life, how he rose to fame, and beyond.

    MC: The book unfolds across Tulsa and Las Vegas — two places with wildly different energies. What drew you to set the story there?

    Jeff: I wanted to be able to describe subtle details of the city Stu lived in. I grew up in Tulsa, and since it’s such a rich playground for subject matter and scenery, it seemed perfect for the Starr family. As for Las Vegas — that’s where stars go to fade away into history, right?

    MC: Stu is a complicated figure: delusional, earnest, hungry, and heartbreakingly human. What should readers understand about his psychology?

    Jeff: Unfortunately, Stu is a bit like what the U.S. has become. He’s obsessed with fame, fortune, himself and not much else. It’s a sad commentary, but if you look at any device, that’s what you see. Stu is just an exaggerated version of that.

    MC: That cultural reflection is part of what makes the book so timely. Let’s talk about your writing process. Are you an outliner, a discovery writer, or something in between?

    Jeff: First off, I don’t consider myself a writer — not like a Stephen King or whatnot. I’m a story creative. I develop mostly full stories in my mind, then take them into a word processor and lay them out as completely as I can. From there, I’m not afraid to use the tools out there: editing software, critiquing software like AutoCrit, and bouncing ideas with AI. But I don’t use AI for coming up with ideas — I bring the ideas, and I might just ask how to word something or ask if something says what I am trying to express. At heart, I’m a dumb musician with a knack for crazy ideas, and I’m okay with that.

    MC: You’ve been open about using modern tools in your creative process. What’s your take on technology’s role in creativity?

    Jeff: AI isn’t for coming up with ideas — it’s for exploring them. I don’t think it’s a threat to the writing world. Have you ever read a book totally conceived by AI? I have. They’re all over Amazon. Add in virtual voice and it’s a double‑whammy slap to the creative community. But as a collaborator? As a tool? Absolutely. I’m a bit of a hermit, so sometimes I need a sounding board. Technology lets me sanity‑check ideas, take notes, voice‑type, and assemble thoughts into usable chunks. I’m all for technology in the arts when it’s used responsibly.

    MC: You’ve said before that Starr Love carries an underlying message. What do you hope readers take away?

    Jeff: The underlying message is to — gasp — stop worshipping fame so much. Fandom is fun, but when it crosses into worship? That’s kind of like being in a cult, isn’t it? While my story is fiction, it could happen. It’s not far‑fetched in today’s world. That alone makes it a pretty scary story, huh?

    MC: One last question. Why was now the right time to tell this story?

    Jeff: I can do it in one sentence: Have you seen the news?

    MC:
    That might be the most concise — and accurate — justification I’ve heard for a novel in years. Sometimes the world hands you a moment so absurd, so loud, so fame‑drunk that the only reasonable response is to write a story that holds a mirror up to it.

    ⭐ Book Availability

    Starr Love will be available February 14th, 2026 in both digital and print formats. Readers will be able to purchase it through Amazon and other major retailers. A full announcement with links will be posted prior to its release.

  • Looking Back at 2025 — and Ahead to 2026

    Looking Back at 2025 — and Ahead to 2026

    Looking Back at 2025 — and Ahead to 2026

    So, here we are again – New Years Eve. As usual, I have been reflecting and thinking ahead.

    2025 was a strange one — a year that didn’t always go the way I expected, but still managed to deliver some real highlights, a few surprises, and more than a little personal growth (forced or otherwise). As the year winds down, I wanted to take a moment to look back at what happened, what I created, what I survived, and what’s coming next.

    Creative Highlights of 2025

    In April, Uncle Jeff’s Once Upon A Time finally made its way into the world. By December, it climbed to #20 on the Amazon Children’s Books chart, which is something I’m incredibly proud of. That little story book found its audience, and seeing it resonate with readers has been one of the brightest parts of my year.

    Early in the year, I released a couple of experimental electronic tracks — not under a band name, not behind a persona, just Jeff Elder. They’re like me – odd, atmospheric, and definitely “an acquired taste,” but they made me happy. Sales weren’t wild, but that was never the point. It felt good to create something purely because I wanted to and I look forward to doing more in the future.

    On the non‑creative side, I started SOHO Admin Force, a business I’ve been quietly building behind the scenes most of the year. I know that’s not what most people come to this site for, but if you are curious, I’ve included a link where you can learn more about what we do above.

    On a Personal Note

    2025 was… physically challenging. Early in the year, I learned that my foot had actually been broken — not recently, but two years earlier. I’d spent all that time assuming it was a stubborn sprain. Turns out, no. It was very broken.

    I had the bone repaired, and the recovery took far longer than expected. I ended up off my feet for more than half the year. And just when I finally started walking again, I managed to injure the other knee. Physical therapy has been my new friend ever since.

    It wasn’t the year of movement I wanted, but I’m grateful to say I’m doing much better now — not quite 100%, but close. Healing is slow, but it’s happening, and I’m ready to step (carefully) into 2026.

    Looking Ahead to 2026

    So, what’s coming next? Quite a bit — the kind of work that’s been simmering quietly while I’ve been healing and regrouping.

    I’ve spent much of this winter finishing and editing my next release, Starr Love. Despite the title, no — it’s not a romance novel. It’s the story of a delusional wannabe rock star who maybe takes things a bit too far. It’s strange, darkly funny, and very much its own thing. You’ll see it on shelves this Spring.

    I’ve got two (maybe three) other manuscripts in various stages of development. Once Starr Love is officially off my plate, I’ll decide which one gets my attention next.

    I’m doing a couple of remixes for the latest Red Red Groove album, Resonance. Since I’ve stepped back from playing live and have mostly retired from the music scene, I only appear on the new album on one track (Activate) — a guitar part I recorded back during the Return sessions. Think of these remixes as my small way of supporting Mike Castle and the groove as he keeps it moving forward.

    I really enoyed making music with no rules, no expectations, and no persona — just me and a pile of synths. Will another track appear in 2026? Maybe. Probably. We’ll see where inspiration leads.

    And Finally…

    I hope everyone has been having — and continues to have — a wonderful holiday season. This time of year always feels like a reset button, a chance to breathe, reflect, and look ahead with a little more optimism than we had in the middle of the year.

    I’m looking forward to making 2026 a great one, creatively and personally, and I hope you’re able to carve out something meaningful for yourself in the months ahead too. Here’s to new projects, better health, and whatever strange, unexpected joys find us along the way.

    Cheers,
    Jeff

  • Greetings from Fall in Texas!

    Greetings from Fall in Texas!

    Autumn finally arrived yesterday, and I couldn’t be happier. I love this time of year. As Mike (from my old band Red Red Groove) used to say, it’s officially “Leather Weather Season.”

    It’s been a minute, and now that the weather’s finally decent, I figured it was time to post an update on what’s been going on.

    Summer Recap
    This summer was a whirlwind. While I haven’t posted much, I’ve been working non-stop on several projects. As I mentioned earlier this year, I’ve been building a new business called SOHO Admin Force. We officially opened our virtual “doors” this month. So now I guess I’m supposed to lean back and collect the cash, right? Just kidding—it’s been a labor of love, and I’m proud of what’s taking shape.

    Beyond that, I’ve continued work on two books: Starr Love and EternaLife. I expect Starr Love will be the first to debut, likely sometime next year. In the original draft, I included several “real” characters by name, thinking it would be funnier if readers recognized them as celebrities. After several months of trying, I wasn’t able to secure permission to use those names, so I went back to the drawing board. All good, though. I’ve learned that with writing, deadlines are overrated. You write until it’s right.

    Studio Shifts
    Ah yes, studio stuff. In today’s digital age, unless you’re a full band needing rehearsal space, there’s not much need for a dedicated studio anymore. I’ve been selling off gear and consolidating everything into a new office setup this Summer, rather than keeping it in a separate building like before.

    Aside from music projects, I’m planning to narrate some of the books myself. I’ve always admired how John Waters does his own readings. There’s something more sincere about hearing a story straight from the horse’s mouth.

    Holiday Promotions
    Next month kicks off the promotional push for Once Upon a Time – a great stocking stuffer for the grandkids (hint hint). We’ll also be rolling out the annual Christmastime on the Beach campaign. That book and CD combo makes a great gift too. Just sayin’.

    Looking Ahead
    Now that SOHO is live, I’ll try to post more often while we wait on the next creative wave. There’s plenty going on behind the scenes, even if I haven’t been gabbing about it like I probably should.

    Until Then…
    Wishing you all a safe and fun Halloween. Here’s a track Mike and I released a few years back to help set the spooky mood.

    Happy Halloween,

    Jeff

  • Summer Summer

    Summer Summer

    It’s been a busy Summer here, figured I should probably drop in a quick update… at the moment, I’ve got three works in progress. Ok, maybe four. Maybe five.

    At the top of the list, creative-wise, I’m about half-way through finishing a book called Starr Love. I’m not going to get deep into what it’s about right now. But, rest assured, it is very different from anything I’ve put out in the past and will be a full-length book (rather than a short like in the past). With any luck, you’ll see Starr Love surface this Fall.

    Also on the writing pad is one called EternaLife. I’ve been working on this for close to a year now and it just keeps evolving. So, rather than rushing it, I’ve decided to let it evolve naturally and, hopefully, we’ll see it in 2026.

    Musically, a remix I did for the band Asylum is being released this month. I don’t have a lot of details on where to stream, etc. But, I know they’ve pressed some CD’s and I hear streaming is coming. Will post a link once I receive it.

    I will also being another abstract “elder” piece this Fall. More on that later.

    What else? Oh, on the non-creative side, I’ve been working on launching a new business called SOHO Admin Force. It’s been taking up a lot of time but, in the end, should provide for some retirement income when the time comes. That’s a good thing. But, very time consuming and has taken away from the writing lately. I’ll be glad once things get up and running and I have more time to devote to writing.

    So… that’s where we are on this Summer of 2025.

    Hope you all have a fun Summer!

    Jeff

  • That One’s in the Bag

    That One’s in the Bag

    Well, sometimes you just have to cut your losses and move on. Late 2023 I started working on a project I was calling, “Elder’s Mixed Bags.” It was an attempt at recreating some of my favorite family recipes into packaged “bags” (think chili mix).

    Throughout 2024, I did some pretty extensive taste testing and responses were great. Unfortunately, after the economy tanked and I started doing the math on supplied and packaging, it became clear that these things were going to cost WAY too much retail to ever sell. I’m not a big company and can’t compete with their slave labor and bulk purchasing power… although, I do have a few nieces and a nephew. Hmm… well, never mind, back to my point – it’s just going to cost the consumer too much. So, I have made the difficult decision to drop the project.

    Should the economy get its shit together before I’m dead, I may revisit the idea. I am also thinking that a recipe book could be the right way to go. At least people could make their own pickle shots or whatnot. Adding it to the idea stack.

    For now, thank you to all my taste testers. I really appreciated the input and had fun playing with recipes. Oh well, off to the next adventure…

    Jeff

  • Once Upon A… Coloring Book!

    Once Upon A… Coloring Book!

    I thought, since I did the children’s book, a coloring book would be fun to go with it. So… here it is!

    I wanted to keep the cost low, so I’m making about 15 cents off each of these babies lol. The rest is the manufacturing cost. Gotta love it, right?

    Have fun!

    – Jeff

  • New Free Music Download Site

    New Free Music Download Site

    A quick distraction from all of the book news…

    I just set up a new Bandcamp page where I will be making some of the harder-to-find past releases (things you can’t find on Amazon or Spotify) available for free download. If you download a song and enter your email address, you should receive notifications when I add new ones. Or, just check back here. I intend to post a short blurb each time I add something.

    Today’s track: Can’t Remember by Trust.

    This was the b-side of the Faith 7-inch single from 1993. Originally released under the band name Trust. Since that time, a new Trust happened. When re-issues of this Trust started happening in 2014, we went with the band name Trust 93 to avoid confusion (since the other Trust is still alive and kicking). This track is also using the Trust 93 band name to make your digital filing easier.

    So…. if you’d like free download, hop on over to the following link:

    Can’t Remember… | Trust 93 | Jeff Elder

    The main page to bookmark is –

    Music | Jeff Elder

    More to come soon!

    Jeff

  • Once Upon a Release Day

    Once Upon a Release Day

    I’m thrilled to officially announce that my new book, Uncle Jeff’s Once Upon a Time, is now available! This project has been a labor of love, and I couldn’t be happier to finally share it with you all. If you grab a copy and enjoy it, I would be incredibly grateful if you could leave a rating or review on Amazon or Goodreads. Those reviews make a big difference in helping the book reach new readers. And if you’d like to help spread the word, sharing this post or telling your friends about the book would mean the world to me.

    Thank you all for your support!

    – Jeff

    Spoiler alert:

    While I’m a big fan of Duran Duran, I’ve never been thrilled about their habit of releasing multiple versions of the same album without much warning. I always end up buying them all—a true sucker for their music! With that in mind, I wanted to share all the coming formats upfront so there are no surprises down the line. While I’d love for you to pick up every version, I completely understand how frustrating that can be. So… pick your favorite poison!

    Paperback – Now available

    Kindle – Now available for purchase OR free to read with Kindle + for next 90 days (I get paid for “page turns” on those – so simply reading and reviewing it for free still helps)

    Audible audiobook – Due in about a week or so

    Hardcover w/ color pictures – Early Summer

    Coloring Book – May 2025

    Other merch (t-shirts, music project, etc.) – Now through Fall