Rock Legends Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo Inspire Young Minds with 'My Grandma and Grandpa Rock
In the heart of Cleveland, at the Martin Luther King Jr. branch of the Cleveland Public Library, two renowned artists, Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, shared insights into their latest project, a children's book titled "My Grandma and Grandpa Rock." The book explores the various professions that grandparents can have, from plumbers to teachers to rock stars. Benatar and Giraldo, who are Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees, drew inspiration from their experiences as grandparents and the joy of spending time with their grandchildren. The event was moderated by Jason Hanley, the VP of education at the Rock Hall, who praised the book for its diverse characters.
During the discussion, Benatar and Giraldo emphasized the importance of fostering inclusivity and acceptance in children from a young age. They highlighted the innocence and open-mindedness of children, who naturally embrace diversity and do not harbor prejudices. The couple expressed their belief in the power of storytelling to instill positive values and promote understanding among young readers. When asked about potential pushback from their publisher due to the book's message in the current political climate, Benatar and Giraldo affirmed that their publisher fully supported their vision of unity and harmony.
Reflecting on their personal backgrounds, Benatar humorously referred to herself as a "Clevelander by marriage," acknowledging her husband's Sicilian heritage and roots in Parma. Giraldo shared anecdotes from his upbringing in Ohio, recalling his struggles with emotional challenges and the transformative role of music in his life. The couple's deep connection to Northeast Ohio was evident as they reminisced about their frequent visits to the region and their exploration of Giraldo's old neighborhoods.
Giraldo also paid tribute to the late Rick Derringer, a fellow Ohioan who played a pivotal role in his music career. He discussed the creation of the poignant song "Hell is For Children," which originated from a poem written by Benatar and her bassist, Roger Capps. The emotional depth and power of the song resonated with fans like Carrie Waller, who attended the event and expressed how Benatar's soulful singing had touched her since the 1970s. Waller found solace in the song's message and praised Benatar's ability to convey raw emotion through her music.
While "My Grandma and Grandpa Rock" marks Benatar's latest venture into literature, having previously penned her memoir, Giraldo revealed his aspirations to complete his own memoir in the near future. The couple's dedication to storytelling and sharing their experiences with audiences of all ages underscores their commitment to spreading positivity and empathy through their art. Through their children's book and personal anecdotes, Benatar and Giraldo continue to inspire and connect with fans, old and new, across generations.