Metal Shop 101

Metal Shop 101: Forging Pittsburgh’s Rock & Metal Legacy

In an abandoned steel mill on the shores of Pittsburgh’s three rivers, the blast furnace still burns bright with Doc Rock at the helm. Metal Shop 101 rises from the ashes, forging the best in the Pittsburgh rock and metal scene.

Doc Rock: The Man Behind the Metal

Doc Rock presents a picture of a tough, heavy metal aficionado: arms sleeved with tattoos, long hair, blue jeans, and a metal band t-shirt. However, beneath this “bad boy” exterior lies a man with a huge heart and an unmatched talent for spotlighting the best in the music world.

The Birth of Metal Shop 101

Metal Shop 101 started over twenty years ago in a small, local bar called the Rock-A-Bye Café nestled in the South Hills of Pittsburgh. Originally a regular DJ gig for Doc Rock, the café became a gathering spot for local bands who came to hang out, have a drink, and listen to tunes. Doc Rock’s DJ sets began featuring the bands’ own music, and Metal Shop 101 was born—a place where musicians could hear each other’s work and introduce their own.

Evolving with the Times

Although the Rock-A-Bye Café has changed ownership and is no longer a rock bar, Doc Rock has kept the metal fire burning. After a brief retirement, he relaunched Metal Shop 101 on an Internet-based radio station, dedicating it to local musicians and giving them a global platform.

Dedication to Local Talent

Metal Shop 101 remains committed to local and unsigned bands, giving them the airplay they deserve. The original Metal Shop 101 banner still hangs in the studio as a flag of dedication to Pittsburgh’s metal community.

Join Doc Rock and Metal Shop 101 as they continue to support and celebrate the vibrant rock and metal scene in Pittsburgh.

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