GenX Journeys Episode 5: Mark Weiss and The Decade That Rocked

On this special episode of GenX Journeys, we revisit a
fascinating conversation originally recorded for Return to the
'80s on January 28, 2021. Paul and Del had the privilege of
interviewing legendary rock photographer Mark "Weissguy" Weiss.
Mark’s story is not just a nostalgic trip through the 80s rock
scene; it’s an inspiring journey of passion, persistence, and
seizing opportunities.


Mark is the creative genius behind some of the most iconic album
covers of the 80s, including Twisted Sister’s Stay
Hungry and Bon Jovi’s Slippery When
Wet. His photographs have graced the pages of rock
magazines like Circus, cementing his place as a cornerstone of
80s rock culture.


But Mark’s career wasn’t handed to him—it started with a daring
hustle. He was arrested for selling photos outside a Kiss
concert, and that unlikely setback led to an opportunity with
Circus magazine. In this episode, Mark shares unforgettable
stories, including earning the nickname “Weissguy” from
Mötley Crüe, hitting the road with Ozzy
Osbourne, and the wild moments behind the scenes of
rock’s golden era.


Mark also shares details about his incredible coffee table book,
The Decade That Rocked: The Photography of Mark "Weissguy" Weiss.
This stunning collection of photos takes you on a journey through
the 80s rock scene and is an absolute must-have for any fan of
the era.


Additionally, at the time of this interview, Mark was
collaborating with Missy Whitney on a book
called Keep On Rollin' - My Fan Club Years with Kevin DuBrow
& Quiet Riot. That book is now complete and available, making
this a perfect moment to revisit this conversation.
Links to Connect with Mark Weiss


Website: TheDecadeThatRocked.com


Book: The Decade That Rocked and other
merchandise available on his website.


Social Media:

Twitter: @markweissguy

Instagram: @markweissguy



Why This Episode Fits GenX Journeys

Mark’s journey is not just about capturing iconic moments in rock
history—it’s a testament to resilience, creativity, and the
ability to turn challenges into triumphs. His inspiring path
aligns perfectly with the spirit of Inspiring Journeys and our
focus on celebrating the human spirit through stories of
perseverance and growth.


Sit back and enjoy this trip back to the 80s and the remarkable
career of Mark Weiss, a true "Weissguy" in every sense of the
word.


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We’d love to hear from you! What’s your favorite 80s rock memory
or album cover? Share it with us on social media and tag us—we
might even share your story in a future episode!


If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review,
sharing it with your fellow 80s fans, and subscribing to
Inspiring Journeys so you don’t miss future episodes.


 


Del can be found on the show 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM
FM as well the 80s at 8 Facebook page where he
posts 80s news.


And you can still follow Return to the 80s at:


https://returntothe80s.wordpress.com/
Find Return to the ’80s on Facebook
Twitter:  @returntothe80s


Email: returntothe80s@gmail.com


 


You can find Paul - The Rhode Runner in the following places:


Twitter: @TheRhodeRunner


Instagram: @TheRhodeRunner


Facebook


Inspiring Journeys can be found on:


InspiringJourneys.net


Instagram: @InspiringJourneysPod


Facebook


Email: paul@inspiringjourneys.net


You can also download and subscribe to the Inspiring Journeys
Podcast at:


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