MUSC 347 - Popular Music History

3 Credits

When Offered (Summer Only)
This course examines the stylistic development of American Popular Music from the framework of intersectionality. It is an analysis of the songs, recordings, and personalities of popular music, as well as the many traditions, cultures, and ethnicities that blended to form this American art form. From its beginnings to the present, the course looks at movements in popular music history including Blues, R&B, Folk Revival, Folk Rock, Soul, Doo Wop, Motown, Surf Music, British Invasion, Acid Rock, Hard Rock, Metal, Disco, Punk, Grunge, and Hip Hop. Each topic is explored within the context of culture and society. This course does not require a technical background in music, but listening skills will be important. Through the discussion of style, students will be introduced to music fundamentals like melody, harmony, rhythm, texture, timbre and form.

Prerequisite(s): ENGL 102.