From Punk to Monk

A Memoir

By: Ray Raghunath Cappo, Moby - foreword

Narrated by: Ray Raghunath Cappo

The heartfelt memoir of Ray Raghunath Cappo, a legendary hardcore punk musician-turned-monk—and pioneer of the straight-edge movement—told with warmth, candor, and humor, narrated by the author himself.

Ray Cappo was a hardcore punk singer and pioneer of the straight-edge movement living on the Lower East Side of New York City in the ’80s, where his band Youth of Today played to packed clubs and touched thousands of people across the globe. But despite the accolades from fans, the popularity of his records, and the positivity he’d brought to the punk music scene, none of this success gave Ray joy. He felt stagnant, and he yearned for something more.

This, along with his father’s untimely death, led him to abruptly quit the band and buy a one-way ticket to India in pursuit of the answers to life’s great mysteries. Living as a monk in the sacred city of Vrindavan and traveling across the country on a series of train trips, Ray embraced the rich, spiritual culture he discovered there. As his unusual adventure unfolded, he encountered extraordinary characters, witnessed deep acts of devotion, and experienced profound moments of divine connection, leading to a radical transformation that was ego-crushing and blissful all at once.

Inspired to write music again, Ray returned to the US, where he and other monks founded Shelter, a band dedicated to spreading a message of faith, hope, and love. Told with warmth, candor, and humor, this heartfelt memoir chronicles Ray’s emotional and spiritual journey from punk to monk and beyond.

HISTORICAL: Offers a unique glimpse into the punk and hardcore scene of the Lower East Side during the 80s and the birth of the straight-edge movement.

SPIRITUAL: Asks (and answers) deep questions about our relationship to the world around us and the living beings that populate it.

PERSONAL: Chronicles Ray’s spiritual journey in his own words, with warmth, candor, and humor.

©2024 Mandala Publishing (P)2024 Mandala Publishing

invigoratingly Refreshing Telling of a Phenomenal Rite of Passage and Beyond

Raghunath's story was so engaging and immersive I have become more inspired to follow that sometimes severely oppressed little voice of reason within. His narration is a joy to hear.

Come For The Music, Stay For The “Secret” Pranayams

I bought this book after listening to a compelling podcast episode featuring the author, Raghunath. I have no real understanding or experience of Bhakti Yoga practice, but the author’s views and message on spirituality had me curious enough to check out his book. Plus, I love music and figured that would be a cool part of the book, too. I was not disappointed. Raghunath narrates this book himself and does a great job. His story of making music and pursuing a spiritual life is funny, humble, and adventurous. There are spiritual teachings throughout that you don’t have to be a Bhakti devotee to appreciate. Raghunath’s story left me both entertained and inspired spiritually. I recommend this book to everyone who wants to hear an incredible story while growing closer to God - no matter your faith.

peace

thank you for your wonderful insights into yourself and our world. thank you for being you.

Real, Raw and Honest

I absolutely loved this book. Raghunath is a fantastic story teller who keeps the listener engaged and present, eager for more.
This is the story of a 80s punk rock kid who found his way to straight edge, vegetarianism and fame. Then gave it all up to go to India, find Krishna, live life as a monk and then come back, not only to the harsh realities of the “real world” but also the fickle world of the music industry. He shares his triumphs and failures, successes and humiliations with a raw honesty that one doesn’t always find among spiritual autobiographies. But the most beautiful part of the story was seeing how Krishna kept him safe, protected and on track even when the cold, callous, material world came calling. Do not skip out on this book.
I am forever grateful for this man’s words and bravery not to mention his music. Shelter changed my life.
When you are done with the book and ready for more check out his amazing podcast Wisdom Of the Sages. Here you will find him and Kaustubha bringing with beautiful teachings of Krishna to life in a practical sense that makes this the most beautiful spiritual practice to be a part of.
I am already excited for the next book he is still writing.

Double It

This was a fantastic listen. Ragunath is a natural story teller and his adventures are so unique. Will definitely be revisiting this book in the future. He also has a daily podcast that I've listened to all 1,300 episodes of.

Still breaking down walls

Thanks Ray! You've been an inspiration since my teens and still as an adult.

I LOVE THIS BOOK!!

This book is a treasure trove for all spiritual seekers! And personally it is inspiring me to go deeper in my Bhakti.

Whether you are familiar with Raghunath or not, you will find his journey to be both captivating and insightful.

But as a huge fan of Wisdom of the Sages myself, this was just absolutely delightful.

Thank you, and Hare Krishna <3

Super inspired

Amazing audio book. Thank you Raghugath Prabhuji, for sharing your inspired memoir. Hare Krishna 🙏

Something for everyone

Raghunath makes his story so compelling and inspiring. No matter what your background punk or spiritual seeker this story will bring you joy and inspiration. Also the storytelling is next level the voices really make the story come to life.

Well-written and captivating!

Though I am not yet to the end of this audiobook, I cannot stop listening. Well-written and captivating, Ray/Raghunath beautifully shares the stories of his life through the lens of experience, wisdom and humility. I have been to India and back with Raghunath but I never knew many of these stories. I feel privileged to have access to them now. A born teacher and leader, I am so thankful that as a teenager, Ray listened to that higher calling, and followed his “pro-noia” instincts that the universe would provide if he kept doing the next right thing, including not eating meat and not conforming to a broken Western system. He has already touched so many people through his music and yogic teachings, and this book will help spread his positive message even more. I highly recommend this book and I thank Raghunath for all his service in this lifetime. Bravo Raghu!