Music Library

How did the popularity of the Beatles lead to the birth of metal music? What do metal artists have in common with classical composers such as Bach and Vivaldi? Readers will explore the answers to these questions and more as they journey through the history of metal music, from Black Sabbath to Slipknot. Readers will gain a deeper appreciation for this complex genre as they explore the evolution of metal and its sub-genres through annotated quotes from musicians and critics, full-color photographs, and a discography of some of the most influential albums in head banging history.

Hip-hop culture has shaped many facets of popular culture, including the worlds of music, politics, and business. The hip-hop movement began with New York City residents with few resources and has now turned into a billion-dollar worldwide industry. Readers will learn about the four elements of hip-hop: rapping (MCing), disc jockeying (DJing), graffiti art, and B-boying (break dancing). They'll learn how these foundational components evolved to construct what hip-hop is recognized as today. A list of essential hip-hop albums and annotated quotes from music critics and famous hip-hop artists are also included in this all-encompassing look at the history of hip-hop.

What do boy bands from the 1990s have in common with the Beatles? Why are some pop artists, such as Justin Timberlake, considered controversial? Readers will discover these answers and the stories behind beloved artists from the Beach Boys to Lady Gaga through fun and fact-filled text about the roots of pop music and how it has spread around the world. Readers will gain a deeper appreciation for their favorite artists and the pop stars who came before them as they explore a discography of important albums, full-color photographs, annotated quotes from artists and journalists, and fascinating sidebars.

Just as people are shaped by the time and place they come from, so is music. Readers are invited to explore music that was born from Latin America and to trace its rise to a position of global popularity. They learn about the different instruments used in music styles such as Cuban and Caribbean and how this music influences the music of other cultures. Also featured is an extensive list of recommended Latin music albums, vibrant photographs of Latin music stars such as Gloria Estefan and Daddy Yankee, and annotated quotes from writers and musicians.

The emergence of indie rock as a genre has helped categorize artists who belong to independent record labels. These musicians, due to their refusal to appeal to the mainstream, have boycotted the corporate rock scene to maintain more creative control. Readers learn about the debate behind whether indie bands later picked up by major labels should still be considered "indie" and why some see them as "sell outs." Detailed sidebars, an essential albums list, and annotated quotes from artists and critics are also included to expose readers to the musicians responsible for the inception and continuance of indie rock.

For a long time, country music has been popular as a way to sing about emotions, events, and people in ordinary life. Over the years, country music has changed, bringing in more instruments, complex lyrics, and musical styles. From honky-tonks to Nashville, country rock to pop country, this style of music continues to evolve, grow, and keep people singing along. Readers discover history behind these toe-tapping tunes through main text and sidebars featuring annotated quotes from country artists and music critics, a detailed discography of essential country albums, and photographs of superstars of country music.