A Brief History of Rock, Off the Record

The birth of rock ‘n’ roll signaled the blossoming of a new teenage culture, dividing generations and introducing a new attitude of rebellion and independence. From Chuck Berry to the Beatles, from punk rock to hip hop, rock ‘n’ roll has continuously transformed alongside or in reaction to social, cultural, and political changes.

A Brief History of Rock, Off the Record is a concise introduction to rock history and the impact it has had on American culture. It is an easy-to-read, vivid account written by one of rock’s leading critics. Pulling from personal interviews over the years, Wayne Robins interweaves the developments in rock music with his commentary on the political and social events and movements that defined their decades.

Wayne Robins is a noted writer on rock and social history. From 1972-75, he was the Editor-in-Chief of the influential rock magazine, Creem, working with such legendary writers as Dave Marsh, Greil Marcus, and Lester Bangs. From 1975-94, he served Pop Music Critic for Newsday, where he was among the first to profile artists ranging from Madonna to Billy Joel. He is the author of several books, including 1968, a history of the music and culture of that seminal year. He currently works for Billboard magazine.