A History of American Popular Music helps readers become more discerning consumers of American popular music through the study of its fascinating history. The text underscores the increased enjoyment and inherent discovery of new music styles and artists when one learns how to describe, analyze, and deconstruct music. Students are encouraged to learn about various facets of music, and as such, broaden their musical interests.

Opening chapters examine the origins of American popular music with emphasis on its roots, including discussions of the important role of music in African culture, the development of the blues, Black minstrelsy, and white appropriation. Additional chapters address music in post-Civil War America, African American music in the early 20th century, the rise of big bands, bop jazz, rhythm and blues, country and western, rockabilly, and rock and roll. Closing chapters speak to how The Beatles changed the landscape of popular music worldwide and how pop music progressed after The Beatles. An appendix lists icons of American popular music by decade.

Developed to help readers become more knowledgeable about the music they listen to on a daily basis, A History of American Popular Music is an ideal resource for courses in music appreciation and the history of American popular music.