Rock Legend Dave Davies of The Kinks to Appear at Bookends in Ridgewood

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Get ready, music lovers and book collectors—Dave Davies, co-founder and iconic lead guitarist of The Kinks, is headed to Ridgewood, New Jersey for a rare in-person event that combines rock history with literary flair. On Saturday, June 1, Davies will appear at Bookends, one of Bergen County’s most beloved independent bookstores, for a special book signing event that promises to be unforgettable.

This is more than just a book signing—it’s a chance to meet a living legend whose riffs helped define British rock in the 1960s and whose influence continues to echo through generations of musicians.


🎸 A British Rock Icon Comes to Bergen County

Dave Davies isn’t just a guitar hero—he’s a trailblazer. As one of the founding members of The Kinks, Davies revolutionized rock music with his aggressive guitar style, pioneering the raw, distorted sound that helped shape everything from punk to grunge.

Known for hits like “You Really Got Me,” “All Day and All of the Night,” and “Lola,” The Kinks were part of the British Invasion that changed the face of music worldwide. While frontman Ray Davies often grabbed headlines, it was Dave’s guitar work that gave the band its signature edge.

Now, fans in New Jersey have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with this rock ‘n’ roll legend in person—right in downtown Ridgewood.

📚 Book Signing Details at Bookends, Ridgewood

Event: Dave Davies Book Signing
Date: Saturday, June 1
Location: Bookends Bookstore
Address: 211 East Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood, NJ
Time: Typically afternoon (exact time TBA — check BookendsNJ.com for updates)
Tickets: Purchase of book required for signing; pre-ordering recommended due to expected high demand.

This event celebrates the release of Dave Davies’ newest book, where he reflects on his life, music, spirituality, and the wild, often tumultuous ride that came with being a rock star during one of the most revolutionary periods in music history.

Whether you’re a lifelong Kinks fan, a lover of rock ‘n’ roll culture, or simply someone who enjoys collecting signed editions, this is a rare chance to add a truly personal item to your bookshelf—and shake hands with a true pioneer of sound.


🛍️ Explore Ridgewood Before and After the Event

Located in the heart of Bergen County, Ridgewood is more than just a backdrop to this star-studded event. It’s a vibrant, walkable town known for its historic charm, boutique shopping, upscale dining, and of course, its independent spirit—perfectly matched with Bookends’ legacy of hosting big-name authors and entertainers.

Before or after the signing, take a stroll through Van Neste Square, grab a bite at one of the town’s excellent cafes, or pop into nearby record stores to continue your musical exploration.


🌟 Why This Matters: Music History Meets Local Culture

Events like this are why New Jersey remains a cultural hotspot. While New York often gets the limelight, the Garden State has a long-standing tradition of drawing major talent to intimate, accessible venues. From Bruce Springsteen in Asbury Park to Dave Davies in Ridgewood, New Jersey is where legends come to connect with real fans.

And it’s not just about celebrity sightings—it’s about celebrating the deep, lasting impact of music and storytelling. Dave Davies’ visit is an invitation to reflect on the soundtrack of our lives—and perhaps, inspire a new generation to pick up a guitar or write their own story.

This is more than just a meet-and-greet—it’s a rare chance to connect with a genuine pioneer of rock ‘n’ roll history, right here in Bergen County, where Davies now resides.


🎸 A Rock Legend With Local Roots

Dave Davies isn’t just a visitor—he’s a local. The guitar icon, who helped shape the British Invasion and redefine rock with his raw, power-chord sound, now calls Bergen County home. As a member of The Kinks, formed in 1963 in London alongside his brother Ray Davies, Mick Avory, and Pete Quaife, Dave introduced the world to a grittier, more rebellious kind of rock.

While Ray often fronted the band, Dave was the fire behind the scenes—and sometimes right at the forefront. His blistering solos and signature guitar tone laid the groundwork for everything from punk to hard rock. He also wrote and sang several Kinks songs himself, including one of his most beloved works, “Living on a Thin Line,” which now lends its name to his memoir.


📚 About the Book: Living on a Thin Line

Living on a Thin Line is more than a rock star’s autobiography—it’s a deeply personal, sharply written account of the highs, lows, chaos, and creativity that defined Dave Davies’ life. From sold-out tours and studio sessions to sibling rivalries and run-ins with icons like John Lennon and Jimi Hendrix, the book paints a vivid picture of the golden era of rock through the eyes of one of its true originators.

According to promotional material, the book is “full of tales of the tumultuous times and the ups-and-downs of his relationship with his brother Ray, along with encounters with the likes of John Lennon and Jimi Hendrix. This will be a glorious read for Kinks fans and anyone who wants to read about the heyday of rock ‘n’ roll.”

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of The Kinks or new to their catalog, this memoir offers a front-row seat to one of music’s most transformative decades—from a man who helped shape it.


📣 Don’t Miss Out

Mark your calendars for June 1, and be sure to pre-order your copy of Dave Davies’ latest book from Bookends to secure your spot in line. Events like this tend to sell out quickly, especially with an artist of Davies’ caliber.

➡️ For the latest updates and ticket information, visit Bookends Bookstore’s website or follow them on social media.


Sources:

  • Bookends Bookstore Official Event Page
  • Dave Davies Official Website
  • Rolling Stone Archives
  • Local reporting via NorthJersey.com