History & Criticism

'A brilliant book by one of the best culture writers in the UK' MIRANDA SAWYER 'A thrilling, immersive journey' ★★★★ RECORD COLLECTOR Spanning seven decades and with over 150 new interviews, including Richard Hawley, Arctic Monkeys, Self Esteem, ABC, Pulp, Def Leppard, The Human League...

Pioneering metal writer Keith Kahn-Harris presents a moving, visionary exploration of Ozzy Osbourne, and of metal music and culture: the potent legacy Ozzy left us. What is a ‘good death’? How about this: After years of terrible health, you gather friends and admirers for one last, glorious...

Bloomsbury presents All Summer Long by David Beard, read by Danny Montooth. This unforgettable and in-depth exploration of The Beach Boys’ incredible output during their early to peak years, from 1961 to 1967, interweaves recollections by group members, family, friends, and musical colleagues...

Bloomsbury presents Queercore, written and read by Audrey Golden. Transatlantic knowledge of the queer underground punk scene that ultimately became queercore developed through the spirit of DIY resistance that guided earlier feminist artists as queer musicians pushed back against the homophobia...

Dive deep into the life of Tupac Shakur—a cultural icon whose music and persona transcended the genre of hip-hop. 'The Chronicles Of TUPAC' is an insightful biography that chronicles the artistry, struggles, and triumphs of one of the most influential figures of our time. From his early beginnings in East Harlem to his rise as a global superstar, this audiobook uncovers the motivations and messages behind Tupac's powerful lyrics, shedding light on his role as a social commentator during tumultuous times.

Dieses außergewöhnliche Buch erzählt nicht nur die Geschichte des Basketballsports von James Naismith über Dr. J bis LeBron James und Dirk Nowitzki. Vielmehr verknüpft Autor Philipp „Dembo" Dembowski die sportliche Entwicklung mit der kulturgeschichtlichen – vom Kampf der afroamerikanischen Spieler in den USA für mehr Gleichberechtigung, über die Herkunft lässiger Baller-Outfits, fette Rhymes und Hip-Hop-Beats bis hin zur Frage, welches Basketballschuhdesign das beste aller Zeiten ist. Ein Buch, das kracht wie ein Slam Dunk von Michael Jordan oder ein Alley-Oop von Shaquille O'Neal.

Em 2013, embarquei numa peregrinação musical sem data definida para descobrir e absorver a essência das culturas regionais da América Latina. Minha jornada se desenrolou de forma incrivelmente aberta, sem um plano exato — guiada pela intuição, instinto e curiosidade. Onde quer que eu fosse, perguntava sobre a música regional e seguia as respostas, chegando apenas com a mente aberta e meus pertences nas costas. Isso me deixou receptiva a todas as oportunidades que surgiram — e, na maioria das vezes, funcionou.

Springsteen Fandom: "A Lifetime Conversation" explores the experience of the Bruce Springsteen musical fandom as a mutual exchange between artist and audience. Choosing significant stops of the Springsteen and E Street Band 2023 Tour as a narrative guideline, the book presents a thorough...

This audiobook examines the succession of events toward the potential standardization of the music for “The Star-Spangled Banner” from an initial letter to President Roosevelt in 1907 to the 1958 congressional hearings on the National Anthem, and the later work of the Swiss-Born American pianist, Rudolph Ganz. These events took place across five decades when a culture of public patriotism was especially pronounced for immigrant musicians.

Ways of Listening is a love letter to music, a sharp analysis of our current cultural reality, and a joyful celebration of the artists who keep creating against all odds. How has the internet changed the way we listen to, and love, the music that shapes our lives? Award-winning musician Rollie...