Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction: Studying rock -- The 1920s, '30s, '40s. The world before rock and roll -- The 1950s. The birth and first flourishing of rock and roll ; The demise of rock and the promise of soul -- The 1960s. The Beatles and the British invasion ; American responses ; Motown pop and southern soul ; Psychedelia -- The 1970s. The growing rock monster ; Black pop, reggae, and the rise of disco ; Mainstream rock, punk, and new wave -- The 1980s. I want my MTV ; Heavy metal, rap, and indie rock -- The 1990s. Alternative rock and rock alternatives ; Widening gaps -- 2000 and beyond. Rock traditions and the business of change -- Glossary.