The Rock History Reader

The Rock History Readeris a comprehensive collection of readings that tell the history of rock as it has been received and explained as a social and musical practice throughout its five decade history. The readings range from the vivid autobiographical accounts of such rock icons as Chuck Berry, Ronnie Spector, and David Lee Roth to the writings of noted rock critics like Simon Frith, Lester Bangs, and Simon Reynolds. It also includes a variety of selections from media critics, musicologists, fanzine writers, legal experts, sociologists and prominent political figures. Many entries also deal specifically with distinctive styles such as Motown, punk, disco, grunge, rap and indie rock. Each entry includes headnotes, which place it in its historical context. The new edition includes additional readings on the roots of rock, new media, the music business, women in rock, and expands on women's issues in rock music, the blues, Soul, R&B, and Gospel music, and country music. The companion website provides students and instructors with links to audio and video resources for each chapter. With numerous readings that delve into the often explosive issues surrounding censorship, copyright, race relations, feminism, youth subcultures, and the meaning of musical value, the Rock History Readerwill appeal to scholars and students from a variety of disciplines.