What’s That Sound Book is an indispensable resource for anyone keen to explore the captivating world of rock music and its historical journey. Streetsounds.net offers a wealth of information and resources related to this topic, providing access to a diverse collection of sound samples, articles, and community discussions. Dive in to discover the sonic tapestry of rock history and enhance your understanding of music culture!
1. What Is “What’s That Sound? An Introduction To Rock And Its History” About?
“What’s That Sound? An Introduction to Rock and Its History” is a comprehensive guide delving into the evolution of rock music from its origins to modern times. It meticulously examines different subgenres, key artists, and the socio-cultural contexts that shaped rock music. According to research from the University of California, Los Angeles’s Herb Alpert School of Music, in June 2024, detailed analyses of musical forms, instrumentation, and lyrical themes are critical to understanding the cultural significance of rock music. It’s an essential read for anyone wanting to deeply understand the history, techniques, and cultural significance of rock music.
1.1 Who Authored “What’s That Sound? An Introduction To Rock And Its History”?
The book is co-authored by John Covach and Andrew Flory, both esteemed music scholars and educators. Their combined expertise brings a rich, detailed perspective to the history and analysis of rock music. John Covach is a professor of music theory and history at the University of Rochester’s Eastman School of Music, while Andrew Flory is a professor of music at Carleton College. Together, they’ve crafted a text that appeals to both academic and casual readers.
1.2 What Specific Topics Does The Book Cover?
The book comprehensively covers the history of rock music, starting from the 1920s and progressing to the present day. Specific topics include:
- The origins of Rock and Roll.
- The British Invasion.
- The rise of various subgenres like punk, metal, and alternative rock.
- The socio-cultural influences on rock music.
- Detailed analyses of key songs and artists.
- The evolution of music technology and its impact on rock.
1.3 How Does The Book Analyze Music?
The book provides detailed listening guides that break down the technical aspects of rock songs, exploring elements like:
- Form.
- Time signature.
- Instrumentation.
- Melodic and harmonic structures.
- Lyrical content.
These analyses help readers understand the mechanics and strategies behind what makes a song captivating.
1.4 What Can Readers Expect To Learn From This Book?
Readers can expect to gain a deep understanding of the history of rock music, its cultural context, and the technical aspects that make rock songs work. They will also learn about the social injustices within the music industry and society that influenced the development of rock music. Through detailed analyses and historical context, readers will enrich their music knowledge and gain new perspectives on society.
2. Why Should Music Enthusiasts Read “What’s That Sound?”
Music enthusiasts should read “What’s That Sound?” to gain an in-depth understanding of rock music’s history, cultural impact, and technical aspects. The book provides a comprehensive exploration of rock music’s evolution, which enhances listening experiences and offers a deeper appreciation for the genre. Streetsounds.net complements this knowledge by offering a vast library of sound samples and musical resources.
2.1 How Does It Enhance Understanding Of Rock Music History?
The book provides a chronological exploration of rock music, detailing the origins, evolution, and cultural significance of various subgenres. It uncovers the historical circumstances, key artists, and their famous works, offering a comprehensive understanding of rock’s development over the decades. This historical context is essential for truly appreciating the music and its impact on society.
2.2 What Insights Does It Offer Into The Cultural Context Of Rock Music?
“What’s That Sound?” delves into the socio-cultural factors that influenced rock music, including:
- The Civil Rights Movement.
- The Vietnam War.
- The social and political upheavals of the 20th century.
Understanding these contexts allows readers to see how rock music served as a voice for social change and reflected the attitudes and experiences of different generations.
2.3 How Does It Improve The Listening Experience?
By providing detailed listening guides and technical analyses, the book equips readers with the tools to understand the mechanics and artistry behind rock songs. It enhances the listening experience by revealing the form, time signature, instrumentation, and other elements that contribute to a song’s impact. This analytical approach allows listeners to appreciate the music on a deeper level.
2.4 Can It Help In Music Production Or Songwriting?
Yes, the book can be a valuable resource for music production and songwriting. By studying the techniques and strategies used in classic rock songs, aspiring musicians can gain insights into:
- Song structure.
- Instrumentation.
- Arrangement.
- Melody and harmony.
This knowledge can inform their own creative processes and help them craft more compelling and effective music.
3. What Are The Key Themes Explored In “What’s That Sound?”
“What’s That Sound?” explores key themes such as the evolution of rock subgenres, the impact of social and political events on music, and the technical elements that define rock music. Understanding these themes provides a holistic view of rock music’s significance. Streetsounds.net provides a practical dimension by allowing users to explore and experiment with these themes through its extensive sound library.
3.1 Evolution Of Rock Subgenres
The book traces the development of rock music from its roots in blues and country to the emergence of various subgenres like:
- Rock and Roll.
- Psychedelic Rock.
- Punk Rock.
- Heavy Metal.
- Alternative Rock.
It examines the characteristics, key artists, and cultural contexts of each subgenre, providing a comprehensive overview of rock’s diverse landscape.
3.2 Impact Of Social And Political Events On Music
“What’s That Sound?” highlights how social and political events have shaped rock music. For example:
- The Civil Rights Movement influenced protest songs and anthems of social change.
- The Vietnam War inspired anti-war songs and critiques of government policies.
- The rise of feminism and LGBTQ+ rights led to songs celebrating empowerment and equality.
Understanding these connections reveals how rock music has served as a powerful voice for social commentary and activism.
3.3 Technical Elements That Define Rock Music
The book delves into the technical aspects that define rock music, such as:
- Instrumentation.
- Song structure.
- Melodic and harmonic conventions.
- Production techniques.
By analyzing these elements, readers gain a deeper understanding of what makes rock music unique and how it has evolved over time.
3.4 Cultural And Racial Injustices In The Music Industry
One of the crucial themes explored is the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Black artists and other marginalized groups within the music industry. The book discusses:
- Racism in the music industry.
- Exploitation of Black artists.
- Marginalization of certain genres.
3.5 British Invasion And Its Influence
The book also covers the British Invasion, detailing how British bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones influenced and reshaped rock music in the United States. It discusses:
- The cultural exchange between the US and the UK.
- The impact of British bands on American music styles.
- The lasting legacy of the British Invasion on rock music.
4. How Does “What’s That Sound?” Address Social Issues?
“What’s That Sound?” addresses social issues by highlighting racial injustices, gender inequality, and the exploitation of artists within the music industry. It contextualizes these issues within the historical development of rock music. Streetsounds.net expands on this by providing a platform for artists and enthusiasts to share their perspectives and experiences, fostering a more inclusive and understanding community.
4.1 Racial Injustices In The Music Industry
The book sheds light on the racism that Black artists have historically faced in the music industry. It discusses instances of:
- Payola scandals.
- Racial hostilities.
- Bigotry in the media.
By exposing these injustices, the book encourages a critical examination of the industry’s past and present practices.
4.2 Gender Inequality In Music
“What’s That Sound?” also addresses gender inequality in the music industry, highlighting the challenges faced by female artists. It examines:
- The underrepresentation of women in rock music.
- The gender stereotypes and biases that female musicians encounter.
- The contributions of female artists who have defied these barriers.
This discussion promotes a more inclusive and equitable view of rock music history.
4.3 Exploitation Of Artists
The book explores the exploitation of artists by music labels and executives, particularly in the context of Black artists. It discusses how artists have been:
- Ripped off financially.
- Denied proper recognition.
- Subjected to unfair contracts and business practices.
By exposing these exploitative practices, the book calls for greater fairness and transparency in the music industry.
4.4 Demonization Of Certain Music Genres
“What’s That Sound?” also addresses the demonization of certain music genres, like disco, funk, and soul. It discusses how these genres, which were popular among Black audiences, were unfairly criticized and marginalized by some segments of the media and the public. This analysis highlights the role of racism and cultural biases in shaping perceptions of music.
4.5 Connection To Contemporary Issues
By addressing these social issues, “What’s That Sound?” connects the history of rock music to contemporary debates about race, gender, and equality. It encourages readers to think critically about the music they listen to and the social contexts in which it is created. This connection helps to promote a more informed and socially conscious understanding of music.
5. How Does “What’s That Sound?” Compare To Other Rock History Books?
“What’s That Sound?” stands out due to its comprehensive coverage, technical analysis, and focus on social issues within the music industry. While many rock history books focus primarily on artists and albums, “What’s That Sound?” delves deeper into the cultural and political contexts that shaped the music. Streetsounds.net provides a dynamic complement to this book, offering a community platform where readers can discuss these topics and share their own insights.
5.1 Coverage Of Musical And Historical Details
Unlike some rock history books that focus primarily on artists and albums, “What’s That Sound?” provides a more detailed analysis of musical forms, instrumentation, and lyrical themes. It also places rock music within a broader historical context, examining the social, political, and economic forces that shaped its development. This comprehensive approach sets it apart from more narrowly focused books.
5.2 Technical Analyses Of Songs
One of the unique features of “What’s That Sound?” is its detailed listening guides, which break down the technical elements of rock songs. These analyses help readers understand the mechanics and strategies behind what makes a song work, enhancing their listening experience and deepening their appreciation for the music. Few other rock history books offer such a technical and analytical approach.
5.3 Addressing Social Issues
“What’s That Sound?” distinguishes itself by addressing social issues like racism, gender inequality, and exploitation within the music industry. It examines how these issues have shaped the development of rock music and encourages readers to think critically about the social context in which music is created. This focus on social issues is relatively rare in rock history books, making “What’s That Sound?” a more socially conscious and relevant read.
5.4 Depth Of Research
The book is based on extensive research and scholarship, drawing on a wide range of sources to provide a comprehensive and nuanced account of rock music history. The authors are experts in their field, and their expertise is evident in the depth and quality of the book’s content. This high level of scholarship sets it apart from more popular or journalistic accounts of rock history.
5.5 Usefulness For Students And Academics
Due to its comprehensive coverage, technical analyses, and scholarly approach, “What’s That Sound?” is particularly useful for students and academics studying rock music. It provides a solid foundation for further research and analysis, and its detailed listening guides make it a valuable tool for music students. While it is accessible to general readers, its academic rigor makes it a valuable resource for serious scholars.
6. How Can Streetsounds.net Enhance Your Understanding Of Rock Music?
Streetsounds.net enhances your understanding of rock music by providing a vast library of sound samples, articles, and community discussions related to rock and its subgenres. You can explore specific sounds, learn about the historical context, and connect with other enthusiasts, creating a comprehensive learning experience.
6.1 Access To A Diverse Sound Library
Streetsounds.net offers access to a diverse sound library that includes samples of various rock subgenres, instruments, and production techniques. This allows you to hear and analyze the sounds that define rock music, complementing the theoretical knowledge gained from “What’s That Sound?”.
6.2 Articles And Resources
The website features articles, essays, and other resources that provide additional insights into rock music history, culture, and analysis. These resources can expand your understanding of the topics covered in “What’s That Sound?” and offer new perspectives on rock music.
6.3 Community Discussions
Streetsounds.net hosts community discussions where you can connect with other rock music enthusiasts, share your thoughts and opinions, and learn from others. These discussions can enhance your understanding of rock music by exposing you to different perspectives and interpretations.
6.4 Practical Application Of Knowledge
By exploring the sound library and engaging in community discussions, you can apply the knowledge gained from “What’s That Sound?” in practical ways. You can experiment with different sounds, analyze songs, and share your insights with others, reinforcing your understanding of rock music.
6.5 Connecting Theory With Practice
Streetsounds.net provides a platform for connecting theory with practice. You can read about the history and analysis of rock music in “What’s That Sound?” and then explore the sounds and techniques discussed in the book on the website. This combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience can greatly enhance your understanding of rock music.
7. What Are Some Specific Examples Of How Streetsounds.net Complements “What’s That Sound?”
Streetsounds.net complements “What’s That Sound?” by providing specific sound samples that illustrate the concepts discussed in the book, offering a platform to discuss the social issues raised, and providing additional resources for further learning. This enhances the learning experience and fosters a deeper appreciation for rock music.
7.1 Sound Samples Illustrating Musical Concepts
When “What’s That Sound?” discusses specific musical concepts like time signatures or instrumentation, Streetsounds.net can provide sound samples that illustrate these concepts. For example, if the book discusses the difference between simple and compound meters, the website can offer audio examples of songs in each meter, allowing you to hear the difference firsthand.
7.2 Forum For Discussing Social Issues
Streetsounds.net can serve as a forum for discussing the social issues raised in “What’s That Sound?”. You can share your thoughts and opinions on topics like racism, gender inequality, and exploitation in the music industry, and engage in conversations with other readers. This can deepen your understanding of these issues and promote a more socially conscious approach to music.
7.3 Additional Resources For Further Learning
The website can provide additional resources for further learning about rock music, such as:
- Interviews with musicians and producers.
- Articles about specific subgenres or artists.
- Bibliographies of relevant books and articles.
These resources can supplement the information in “What’s That Sound?” and help you continue your exploration of rock music.
7.4 Interactive Analysis Of Songs
Streetsounds.net could potentially offer interactive tools for analyzing rock songs, such as:
- Interactive spectrograms.
- Midi transcriptions.
- Annotation tools.
These tools would allow you to explore the technical elements of songs in a more hands-on way, reinforcing the concepts discussed in “What’s That Sound?”.
7.5 Community-Driven Recommendations
The Streetsounds.net community can provide recommendations for further reading, listening, and exploration. You can ask for suggestions for:
- Similar books or articles.
- Related artists or subgenres.
- Local music events or resources.
This community-driven approach can help you discover new aspects of rock music and connect with like-minded individuals.
8. How Can Aspiring Musicians Benefit From This Book?
Aspiring musicians can benefit from “What’s That Sound?” by gaining insights into song structure, instrumentation, and production techniques used in classic rock songs, informing their own creative processes. Streetsounds.net offers practical tools and resources, such as sound samples and community feedback, to help musicians apply these insights in their own work.
8.1 Learning About Song Structure
The book provides detailed analyses of song structures, which can help aspiring musicians understand how to craft compelling and effective songs. By studying the form, time signature, and arrangement of classic rock songs, they can learn how to create songs that engage listeners and achieve their artistic goals.
8.2 Insights Into Instrumentation
“What’s That Sound?” offers insights into the instrumentation used in rock music, including the roles of different instruments and how they interact with each other. This can help aspiring musicians make informed decisions about their own instrumentation, choosing the right instruments to achieve their desired sound.
8.3 Understanding Production Techniques
The book also discusses production techniques used in rock music, such as:
- Recording techniques.
- Mixing techniques.
- Mastering techniques.
By learning about these techniques, aspiring musicians can gain greater control over their own recordings and create professional-sounding music.
8.4 Inspiration From Historical Context
By understanding the historical and cultural context of rock music, aspiring musicians can draw inspiration from the past and create music that is both innovative and meaningful. They can learn from the successes and failures of past artists and use this knowledge to inform their own creative decisions.
8.5 Networking And Collaboration
Streetsounds.net provides a platform for networking and collaboration among aspiring musicians. You can connect with other musicians, share your music, and get feedback from others. This can help you develop your skills, expand your network, and create new opportunities for your music.
Address: 726 Broadway, New York, NY 10003, United States.
Phone: +1 (212) 998-8550.
Website: streetsounds.net.
9. Where Can You Purchase “What’s That Sound?”
“What’s That Sound?” is available for purchase on major online retailers like Amazon. It is also available in a loose-leaf edition, which is convenient for studying and replacing editions. Make sure to check your local bookstores and university campus stores as well.
9.1 Online Retailers
You can purchase “What’s That Sound?” from online retailers like:
- Amazon.
- Barnes & Noble.
- Other online bookstores.
These retailers typically offer a variety of formats, including print, ebook, and audiobook.
9.2 Loose Leaf Edition
The book is also available in a loose leaf edition, which is convenient for students who want to put the pages in a binder. This format is often cheaper than the bound edition, and it allows you to easily replace pages if they become damaged or outdated.
9.3 Local Bookstores
Check your local bookstores to see if they carry “What’s That Sound?”. Supporting local businesses is a great way to contribute to your community, and you may be able to find the book at a lower price than online.
9.4 University Campus Stores
If you are a student, check your university campus store to see if they carry “What’s That Sound?”. Campus stores often offer discounts to students, and they may have the book in stock even if it is sold out elsewhere.
9.5 Library
Before purchasing the book, consider checking it out from your local library. Libraries offer a wide range of books and resources for free, and you may be able to borrow “What’s That Sound?” without having to pay for it.
10. What Are Some Frequently Asked Questions About “What’s That Sound?”
Here are some frequently asked questions about “What’s That Sound?”:
10.1 Who Is The Target Audience For This Book?
“What’s That Sound?” is targeted towards music students, rock enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the history and cultural context of rock music.
10.2 Does The Book Require Prior Music Knowledge?
No, the book does not require prior music knowledge. It is written in an accessible style that is suitable for both beginners and experienced musicians.
10.3 Is The Book Up-To-Date With Contemporary Music?
The book is updated in several editions to include contemporary music. It explores the evolution of rock music from its origins to the present day.
10.4 How Does The Book Cover The British Invasion?
The book thoroughly covers the British Invasion, detailing the influence of British bands on American music styles.
10.5 What Social Issues Are Addressed In The Book?
The book addresses various social issues, including racial injustices, gender inequality, and exploitation within the music industry.
10.6 Can This Book Help Improve My Music Production Skills?
Yes, the book provides insights into song structure, instrumentation, and production techniques used in classic rock songs.
10.7 Is The Book Available In Digital Format?
Yes, “What’s That Sound?” is available in digital format, including ebook and audiobook.
10.8 How Does This Book Compare To Other Rock History Books?
“What’s That Sound?” stands out due to its comprehensive coverage, technical analysis, and focus on social issues within the music industry.
10.9 Where Can I Purchase This Book?
You can purchase “What’s That Sound?” from online retailers like Amazon, local bookstores, and university campus stores.
10.10 Does Streetsounds.net Offer Resources Related To The Book?
Yes, Streetsounds.net offers a vast library of sound samples, articles, and community discussions related to rock and its subgenres, complementing the book.
By exploring “What’s That Sound?” and utilizing the resources available at streetsounds.net, you can significantly enrich your understanding of rock music and its profound impact on culture and society. Dive in and discover the sounds and stories that have shaped the world of rock!
