David Ventura: Understanding Popular Music

Understanding Popular Music tells the story of pop from 1950 to today through a study of the key themes of style, performers, and instruments. Practical analysis of hit songs aids understanding of the numerous elements that characterise pop music styles.  An invaluable reference resource for students and teachers of any course that includes pop music, this accessible and engaging book will also interest anyone simply curious about what makes a good pop song work and how the genre has evolved over time. 

The book is accompanied by iTunes, Spotify and YouTube playlists to bring the analysis of the hit songs to life, and additional original audio on a companion website: www.hybridpublications.com - enter code TR398 to access the supplementary resources.

"The best overview of popular music styles that I have seen"
Jane Werry - Music Teacher, May 2012