Chris Epting

Chris Epting is an author, journalist, and pop culture historian known for documenting the locations where significant moments in American history and pop culture occurred. Epting established a new genre in book publishing with the release of three titles: "James Dean Died Here: The Locations of America's Pop Culture Landmarks," "Elvis Presley Passed Here," and "Marilyn Monroe Dyed Here." These books introduced readers to the concept of the pop culture road trip. Epting followed these works with "Led Zeppelin Crashed Here" and "Roadside Baseball." "James Dean Died Here" was recognized as a Booksense 76 pick and received coverage from NPR's "All Things Considered," USA Today, Los Angeles Times, and Publishers Weekly.

"Roadside Baseball" received attention from Ken Burns, The Sporting News, and the New York Post, while "Led Zeppelin Crashed Here" was recommended for public libraries by Library Journal. Media outlets including the Associated Press and Newsday highlighted the book for fans of rock and roll history. Epting's compendium, "It Happened Right Here: America's Pop Culture Landmarks," collects highlights from his previous works and adds new sites, guiding readers to locations where pivotal events in American popular culture took place.

As a memoirist, Epting has collaborated on more than a dozen memoirs with figures such as John Oates, the Doobie Brothers, Leif Garrett, Tyrus, Dave Mason, Olympian Shirley Babashoff, and Def Leppard's Phil Collen. Notable collaborations include the John Oates memoir "Change of Seasons" and "Long Train Runnin'" with the Doobie Brothers. Epting's work in nonfiction spans travel, sports, and pop culture, and he has appeared as a guest on various television and radio programs.

Epting is also a travel writer, contributing to publications including Los Angeles Times, Westways, and Travel + Leisure Magazine. He has served as the national spokesman for Hampton Inn's Save-A-Landmark program, hosted the weekly syndicated radio show "The Pop Culture Road Trip," and appeared as a pop culture commentator on National Public Radio, E! Channel, and Access Hollywood. His radio program "The Moment" features conversations with artists, athletes, and public figures, focusing on transformative moments in their lives. Epting also created and hosts the local TV show "Hidden Huntington Beach," which explores local history and uncovers lesser-known stories. Through his books, radio, and television work, Epting documents the places and moments that shape American popular culture.