In the 1970s, rock moved firmly into the mainstream of popular culture. Several new rock sub-genres emerged in this decade, in addition to many continuations and transformations of previous rock styles. Virtually every possible feature of rock music appears in the 1970s, from hard to soft, experimental to predictable, and brilliant to vapid.
In this course we’ll explore this wide variety of music, from country rock, blues rock, and roots rock, to glam, disco, punk, and progressive rock.
The influence of 1970s popular music can still be heard in music of the 21st century, and some even argue that no radically new pop genre has emerged since then. We’ll contemplate this provocative statement as we explore the powerful and fun era of 1970s rock.
Facilitator: Keith McCuaig, MA
With an MA in Music and Culture, and over twenty years’ experience as a musician, Keith McCuaig is dedicated to all things music and art. He loves exploring the histories of popular music, especially the interconnectedness of genres, and the socio-cultural significance of music. Keith has extensive experience in researching, writing and teaching a variety of music-related topics; he has taught courses through Carleton University and the University of Ottawa, and presented at international musicology conferences.
