More
than half a century after the birth of rock, the musical genre
that began as a rebellious underground phenomenon is now acknowledged
as America's-and the world's-most popular and influential musical
medium, as well as the soundtrack to several generations' worth of
history. From Ray Charles to Joni Mitchell to Nirvana, rock music has
been an undeniable force in both reflecting and shaping our cultural
landscape.
Icons of Rock offers a vivid overview of rock's pervasive
role in contemporary society by profiling the lives and work of the
music's most legendary artists. Most rock histories, by virtue of their
all-encompassing scope, are unable to cover the lives and work of
individual artists in depth, or to place those artists in a broader
context.
This two-volume set, by contrast, provides extensive
biographies of the 24 greatest rock n' rollers of all time, examining
their influences, innovations, and impact in a critical and historical
perspective. Entries inside this unique reference explore the issues,
trends, and movements that defined the cultural and social climate of
the artists' music. Sidebars spotlight the many iconic elements
associated with rock, such as rock festivals, protest songs, and the
British Invasion. Providing a wealth of information on the icons,
culture, and mythology of America's most beloved music, this
biographical encyclopedia will serve as an invaluable resource for
students and music fans alike.