AMST 235: The Social History of Popular Music

This course analyzes the social forces, technological advances, and multicultural influences that have contributed to the development of US popular music, including Tin Pan Alley pop, blues, country, rhythm and blues, rock 'n' roll, rock, soul, punk, disco, rap, and heavy metal. Popular music is treated as commercial mass culture and discussed as a social indicator. Extensive use is made of audio and video recordings.