Meet Me In The Bathroom Book

Published in 2017, "Meet Me in the Bathroom" is a book written by Lizzy Goodman that chronicles the rise of the New York City indie rock scene in the early 2000s. Goodman spent years interviewing musicians, label executives, and other figures from the scene to create a comprehensive and revealing account of this vibrant and influential era in music history.

The book's title is taken from the lyrics of the Strokes song "Meet Me in the Bathroom," which became an anthem for the scene. Goodman uses this song as a jumping-off point to explore the various bands, venues, and characters that defined this era. She writes about the Strokes, Interpol, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, LCD Soundsystem, and many others, capturing the excitement and energy of their live shows and the camaraderie that existed between them.

One of the things that makes "Meet Me in the Bathroom" so compelling is Goodman's ability to weave together the personal stories of the musicians with the larger cultural context of the time. She shows how the 9/11 attacks, the rise of social media, and the changing landscape of the music industry all played a role in shaping the sound and style of the New York City indie rock scene.

Goodman also provides a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes machinations of the music industry. She writes about the label wars, the bidding wars, and the power struggles that went on behind closed doors. She also examines the role of drugs and alcohol in the scene, and the tragic deaths of several key figures.

"Meet Me in the Bathroom" is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of indie rock music. It is a well-written, informative, and entertaining account of a truly unique and influential era in music history.

Key Themes

Some of the key themes that emerge in "Meet Me in the Bathroom" include:

The power of music to bring people together and create a sense of community. The New York City indie rock scene of the early 2000s was a close-knit community of musicians, fans, and industry insiders. Goodman shows how music created a sense of belonging and purpose for many people who felt like outsiders or misfits.
The importance of authenticity and originality in art. The musicians of the New York City indie rock scene were not interested in following trends or pandering to the mainstream. They wanted to create music that was true to themselves and their own experiences. Goodman shows how this commitment to authenticity and originality helped to create some of the most groundbreaking and influential music of the era.
The challenges of balancing art and commerce. The musicians of the New York City indie rock scene faced a constant struggle to balance their artistic integrity with the need to make a living. Goodman shows how this struggle led to some difficult choices and compromises, and how it ultimately shaped the sound and direction of the scene.
The destructive power of addiction. Many of the musicians in the New York City indie rock scene struggled with addiction to drugs and alcohol. Goodman shows how addiction can have a devastating impact on both individuals and their relationships, and how it can ultimately lead to tragedy.

Impact and Legacy

"Meet Me in the Bathroom" has had a significant impact on the way that we understand the New York City indie rock scene of the early 2000s. Goodman's book has helped to popularize the scene and introduce it to a new generation of fans. It has also helped to shed light on the challenges and sacrifices that musicians face in order to pursue their art.

The book's legacy is likely to continue to grow in the years to come. "Meet Me in the Bathroom" is a valuable historical document that captures a unique and influential moment in music history. It is a book that will continue to be read and enjoyed by fans of indie rock music for many years to come.