Draft:David F. Castagno

• Comment: In accordance with Wikipedia's Conflict of interest policy, I disclose that I have a conflict of interest regarding the subject of this article. 99.130.144.132 (talk) 03:23, 6 May 2025 (UTC)

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David F. Castagno is the founder, publisher and editor of Screamer Magazine, a rock and metal music publication established in Los Angeles, California, in October 1987. Known as "The Loudest Mag on the Planet," Screamer Magazine began as a platform to promote and cover the local L.A. music scene, particularly focusing on unsigned bands and giving them a professional-quality outlet to gain visibility. Castagno’s vision was to treat these emerging artists with the respect they deserved, filling a gap in the music journalism landscape at the time. Under his leadership, the magazine quickly gained traction, expanding from its grassroots origins to feature interviews with major acts like Guns N’ Roses, Metallica, and Ozzy Osbourne by early 1988. In 1992, Castagno took the magazine national, selling a controlling interest to McMullen & Yee Publishing (later acquired by Primedia), which broadened its reach beyond Southern California. However, as the music industry shifted with the rise of grunge and a decline in metal’s dominance, the print edition ceased in March 1994 and McMullen & Yee Publishing returned the publication to Castagno and the two parted ways. After numerous attempts to partner with new publishers failed, Castagno chose not to continue it alone amid the changing landscape and temporarily stepped away from publishing. Beyond publishing, Castagno has a multifaceted background in the entertainment industry. He was a performer in the 1980’s L.A. music scene, playing at iconic venues like The Roxy, The Whisky, and Gazzarri’s, known for his enthusiastic stage presence. He also worked as a promoter, booking sold-out concerts in the L.A. and Hollywood areas with artists from major labels like Geffen, MCA, Atlantic, and Chrysalis, leveraging cross-promotions with radio and print media. In 2011, he revived Screamer Magazine as an online platform, digitizing its archives and adapting to the resurgence of interest in 80s metal. That same year, he launched RadioScreamer, a related project produced by Mike Stark, a former show producer at 105.5 KNAC. After leaving the music industry in 1994, Castagno founded a multimedia design and marketing firm. In 2008, he combined his entertainment experience and business skills to establish Castagno Entertainment Group, a full-service artist management company. His extensive involvement in music—as a performer, promoter, and publisher—gives him a unique perspective in the field. He remains a key figure in rock and metal journalism through Screamer Magazine’s ongoing digital presence.