History & Criticism

In this intimate and open account—nothing like any rock-and-roll memoir you’ve ever read—Alex Van Halen shares his personal story of family, friendship, music and brotherly love in a remarkable tribute to his beloved brother and band mate.

David Byrne’s incisive and enthusiastic look at the musical art form, from its very inceptions to the influences that shape it, whether acoustical, economic, social, or technological, is now updated with a new chapter on digital curation.

On the evening of July 25, 1965, Bob Dylan took the stage at Newport Folk Festival, backed by an electric band, and roared into his new rock hit, "Like a Rolling Stone"....

Bestselling authors Richard Bienstock and Tom Beaujour tell the no-holds-barred history of the iconic music festival.

A stunning, in-depth look at the power and poetry of one of the most consequential rappers of our time....

From the author of the definitive biography of Frank Sinatra, the story of three towering artists—Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Bill Evans—and how they came together to create the most iconic jazz album of all time, Kind of Blue.

An energetic and explosive oral history examining emo’s pop culture takeover from 1999-2008, featuring exclusive interviews with My Chemical Romance’s Mikey Way and Fall Out Boy’s Pete Wentz and Patrick Stump....

From 1965 to 1995, the Grateful Dead flourished as one of the most beloved, unusual, and accomplished musical entities to ever grace American culture....

Acclaimed critic and TtT co-founder Ann Powers and contributor Alison Fensterstock draw from every Turning the Tables season and the full 50-years of NPR archives to bring a vibrant, entertaining history of women in folk, rock, rap, hip hop, salsa, bubblegum pop, and much more.

The epic, rollicking, up-and-down life of Muddy Waters—who went from Mississippi farmhand to musical legend, invented electric blues, and created the template for the rock-and-roll band and its wild lifestyle—is chronicled with rare vividness in Robert Gordon’s widely praised biography....

Legendary rock journalist Mick Wall delivers definitive insight into America's bestselling band of all time, exploring their meteoric rise to fame and the hedonistic days of the '70s music scene in LA, when American music was taking over the world....

In Corporate Rock Sucks, music journalist Jim Ruland relays the unvarnished story of SST Records. SST was the most popular indie label by the mid-80s - until a tsunami of legal jeopardy, financial peril, and dysfunctional management brought the empire tumbling down....

Under the Big Black Sun explores the nascent Los Angeles punk rock movement and its evolution to hardcore punk as it's never been told before....

The follow-up to The McCartney Legacy, Volume 1, the most complete work on the life and work of Paul McCartney ever published. Volume 2 continues to paint the portrait of one of the world’s greatest musicians, his work post-Beatles, and his life from 1974 to 1980.

Without Nebraska, Bruce Springsteen might not be who he is today. The natural follow-up to Springsteen’s hugely successful album The River should have been the hit-packed Born in the U.S.A....

Discovered at last, the legendary lost manuscript of Grateful Dead co-founder and primary lyricist Robert Hunter, written in the early 1960s—a wry, richly observed, and enlightening remembrance of “the scene” in Palo Alto that gave rise to an incredible partnership of Hunter and Jerry Garcia.

Revised and updated with new material for fans of the band and this beloved rock classic, Hammer of the Gods is the gold-standard biography of the band Led Zeppelin.

Tune In is the first volume of All These Years - a highly-anticipated, groundbreaking biographical trilogy....

When Paul McCartney closed Live Aid in July of 1985, we thought he was rock's Grand Old Man. He was forty-three years old. As the forty years since have shown, he—and many others of his generation—were just getting started.

This is the story of an important period in rock music, but also of the harsher results of the sixties....

A modern take on a classical icon: this “luminous book” tells the story of when, where, and how Chopin composed his most famous work, uncovering many surprises along the way and showing how his innovative music still animates and thrives in our culture centuries later....

By a pair of veteran music writers, an unprecedented history of the electric guitar, its explosive impact on music and culture, and the people who brought it to life....

I Want My MTV tells the story of the first decade of MTV, the golden era when MTV's programming was all videos, all the time, and kids watched religiously to see their favorite bands....

This is the first comprehensive history of the disc jockey, a cult classic now updated with five new chapters and substantial additional material. It's the definitive account of DJ culture, from the first record played over airwaves to house, hip-hop, techno, and beyond....

Ted Gioia's History of Jazz has been universally hailed as a classic - acclaimed by jazz critics and fans around the world....

Bestselling authors Richard Bienstock and Tom Beaujour tell the no-holds-barred history of the iconic music festival. Through hundreds of new interviews with artists, tour founders, festival organizers, promoters, publicists, sideshow freaks, stage crews, record label execs, reporters, roadies and more, Lollapalooza chronicles the tour’s pioneering 1991-1997 run, and, in the process, alternative rock’s rise–as well as the reverberations that led to a massive shift in the music industry and the culture at large.

Since 1925, the Grand Ole Opry has left an undeniable mark on American culture. What began as an impromptu performance of old-time fiddle tunes has transformed into the longest-running radio broadcast in US history, as well as a live performance for millions of country music fans each year. Replete with gorgeous illustrations and tributes from country music’s biggest names, 100 Years of Grand Ole Opry is a glorious, one-of-a-kind celebration, and a must-have for any country music fan.

Run the Song is also the story of how a professional critic, frustrated with conventional modes of criticism, finds his way back to a deeper relationship with music. When stumped or preoccupied by a piece of music, Ratliff starts to think that perhaps running can tell him more about what he’s listening to—let’s run it, he’ll say. And with that, the listener in turn is invited to listen alongside one of the great listeners of our day in this wildly inventive and consistently thought-provoking chronicle of a profoundly unsettling time.

This Element contributes to the interdisciplinary study of mariachi, especially in the United States, by focusing on two areas that have yet to receive substantive academic attention: philanthropy and museum studies. In 2011, UNESCO included mariachi music on its list of expressions of intangible cultural heritage. While it is undoubtedly true that mariachi is in many ways intangible, this downplays expressions of its rich material culture and the work of scholars to research mariachi history beyond an emphasis on musical performance.

From larger-than-life adventures to vivid and poignant tales of the imagination, Highways and Byways is a collection of stories taking readers on an enthralling tour (complete with the odd detour) through the raucous, well-lived life of one of this country's most successful and beloved artists.

Dive into the enchanting world of opera where musical mastery meets literary brilliance! In "From Page to Stage: The Literature Behind Great Operas," seasoned violist and longtime principal player of the Santa Fe Opera Orchestra, Richard Fleischman takes readers on an illuminating journey through the rich tapestry of stories that have inspired some of the most beloved operatic works in history. Drawing on decades of experience performing works by iconic composers like Mozart, Verdi, and Puccini, as well as witnessing the evolution of new operas—including the Grammy-winning Cold Mountain ...

Woodstock was one of the wildest experiences of my life. The whole of 1969 was a blur of festivals. I jammed with Jimi Hendrix more times than I can remember. We played together at the Scene Club in New York, at the Experience in L.A., and even did a benefit for Tim Leary at the Village Gate in New York. After those late-night jams at the Scene, we’d often head over to the Record Plant Studios to keep playing. It was an electric time—music, energy, and pure creativity flowing non-stop. That era was a whirlwind of blues, rock, and raw emotion. The music was everything, and we were living...

The Genius of Johann Sebastian Bach: A Life in Music By Richard Fleischman Primaviolista Press Discover the extraordinary life and enduring brilliance of the man who reshaped music forever. Johann Sebastian Bach wasn’t just a composer—he was an architect of sound, a mathematician of melody, and a storyteller whose music still speaks to the soul centuries later. In The Genius of Johann Sebastian Bach: A Life in Music, music professor, performer, and international lecturer Richard Fleischman takes readers on an inspiring and immersive journey through the life and works of one of ...

The Mad Genius of Classical Music: Mental Health and the Creative Minds of Composers offers a compelling exploration into the lives of some of history’s most celebrated classical composers and the mental health struggles that profoundly shaped their music. This thought-provoking book takes a deep dive into the personal lives and psychological struggles of composers like Beethoven, Chopin, Tchaikovsky, Schumann, and many others. It explores how their battles with mental illness—from depression and anxiety to bipolar disorder, psychosis, and substance abuse—were inextricably tied to ...

Chamber Music: From Classical Roots to Contemporary Echoes By Richard Fleischman Primaviolista Press Chamber music has long been celebrated as the most intimate and expressive form of classical music, where small ensembles create profound musical conversations. In From Court to Concert Hall: The Rise and Relevance of Chamber Music, Richard Fleischman takes readers on an engaging journey through the evolution of this beloved art form—from its origins in the salons of the 18th century to its modern innovations. Blending historical insight, musical analysis, and vivid storytelling, this book...

From Chant to Choir: Sacred Music in Religion and World Culture In From Chant to Choir, explore the profound power of music as it transcends time, cultures, and spiritual traditions. This captivating journey delves into the sacred sounds that have shaped religious practices across the globe—from the ancient rhythms of indigenous chants to the harmonies of modern worship. Discover how music has been used not only as a tool for devotion and connection to the divine but also as a source of healing, resistance, and transformation. With a focus on the rich and diverse traditions of Hinduism, ...

Silenced on Stage The Censorship and Banning of Opera, Vaudeville, and Broadway Musicals from Shakespeare to Hamilton From the raucous riots over Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring to the fierce backlash against The Book of Mormon, Silenced on Stage takes you on a whirlwind journey through the fascinating history of censorship in theatre and music. In this compelling exploration, Richard Fleischman dives deep into the clashes between powerful authorities and the bold artists who have pushed boundaries and challenged the status quo. Whether it’s religious protests against rock operas, political...

A Grand American Stage: A Comprehensive History of Opera in the United States Opera in America has always been more than music—it is a reflection of the nation’s evolving cultural, social, and artistic identity. A Grand American Stage is the most comprehensive exploration of opera’s journey in the United States, from its earliest days in makeshift theaters to the grandeur of the Metropolitan Opera and the rise of regional companies that bring this art form to every corner of the country. Renowned music historian Richard Fleischman takes readers on an immersive journey through more ...

Classical Music for the Modern Listener: Breaking Down Barriers to the Great Composers Unlock the world of classical music like never before! Whether you’re a curious beginner or someone who’s long been intrigued by the timeless beauty of classical compositions, Classical Music for the Modern Listener is your ultimate guide to understanding, enjoying, and connecting with the world’s greatest music. In this accessible, engaging book, you’ll discover how classical music evolved, how to listen to its many forms, and how you can experience it more deeply—without feeling overwhelmed by...

“Queer Opera: The Hidden History and Impact of LGBTQ+ Voices on the Stage” is an illuminating exploration of opera’s profound and complex relationship with the LGBTQ+ community. From its roots in the baroque era to the modern, inclusive productions of today, this book charts the powerful, often hidden narratives of queer artists who have shaped and been shaped by the world of opera. Written by Richard Fleischman, a life-long lover and practitioner of opera, this book takes readers on a personal and intellectual journey through the often-overlooked history of LGBTQ+ figures in opera. ...

The Castrati: The Forgotten Men of Opera (Rediscovering Classical Music) For over two centuries, they were the superstars of the opera world—revered, envied, and worshipped like demigods. With voices that defied nature, soaring effortlessly from haunting whispers to dazzling virtuosity, the castrati became the most celebrated and controversial figures in music history. Yet today, their names are barely remembered, their once-glorious voices lost to time. In The Castrati: The Forgotten Men of Opera, renowned performer and music historian [Your Name] pulls back the curtain on these ...

Step into the world of intrigue, passion, and scandal with Unmasking the Masters: The Scandalous Lives of Classical Composers. This captivating journey reveals the hidden, tumultuous lives of the greatest composers in history—where genius meets controversy, and every note tells a story of betrayal, obsession, and forbidden love. From Mozart’s reckless behavior to Beethoven’s tortured relationships, this book unveils the shocking secrets behind the music we hold dear. Discover the scandalous affairs, bitter rivalries, and dramatic breakdowns that often shaped the masterpieces we revere...

In Revolutionary Requiems, renowned author and music scholar Richard Fleischman takes readers on an extraordinary journey through the hauntingly beautiful and profoundly moving history of requiem music. This monumental work explores how composers from Mozart to the present day have used the requiem mass as a powerful tool to memorialize the dead, reflect on grief, and navigate the complex relationship between life, death, and the divine. From the iconic Requiem of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart to the modern, avant-garde works of composers like Britten, Penderecki, and Schnittke, this book delves ...

What makes a symphony a masterpiece? Why do certain symphonies continue to move audiences centuries after they were composed? The Anatomy of a Symphony takes you deep into the heart of the greatest orchestral works ever written, unlocking their structure, meaning, and emotional power. From Haydn’s groundbreaking classical forms to Beethoven’s revolutionary intensity, from the rich storytelling of Tchaikovsky to the daring innovations of modern symphonists, this book explores the evolution of the symphony and the genius behind its creation. With clear, engaging explanations, you’ll ...

Throughout history, music has not only reflected the world around it but has actively shaped the course of history. In Music That Changed the World, this powerful connection is explored through a curated collection of iconic compositions that became anthems of revolution, resistance, and social change. From Beethoven’s Eroica, originally dedicated to Napoleon and reimagined as a symbol of political upheaval, to Shostakovich’s Leningrad Symphony, performed in defiance against Nazi tyranny, these pieces of classical music are more than just works of art—they are the soundtracks of ...

THE FORGOTTEN COMPOSERS: Musical Geniuses Who Disappeared from History is a captivating exploration of the overlooked figures who shaped the classical music landscape. From revolutionary symphonic innovators to pioneering women and artists silenced by political oppression, this book highlights the composers whose works once dazzled audiences but have since faded into obscurity. Through compelling narratives and in-depth profiles, the book uncovers the stories of these forgotten geniuses, from Ruth Crawford Seeger’s avant-garde vision to Mieczysław Weinberg’s bold symphonies, and from ...

Uncover the haunting stories behind the missing masterpieces of classical music in Richard Fleischman's The Lost Symphonies: Mysterious Deaths and Vanished Manuscripts. This gripping exploration takes readers deep into the mysteries of some of the greatest musical compositions that were never heard—or heard only in fragmentary form. From the tantalizing rumors of a “lost” symphony by Mozart to the shadowy figures surrounding the final works of Mahler and Beethoven, this book brings to light the eerie stories of vanishing manuscripts, suppressed symphonies, and compositions destroyed ...

Discover the thrilling, often shocking stories of opera’s greatest forbidden works in The Forbidden Operas: Banned, Lost, and Forgotten Works from the Opera World. Journey through the world of classical music where composers, driven by vision and passion, pushed the boundaries of their time, only to have their masterpieces censored, suppressed, or lost to history. Why were these operas banned? How did politics, power, and societal norms influence what was allowed on stage? From the suppression of Mozart’s secret Masonic symbols to the fiery revolution in Verdi’s Un Ballo in Maschera, ...

The Art Song Handbook is a comprehensive exploration of one of classical music’s most expressive genres. Whether you are a musician, student, or music enthusiast, this book provides an accessible yet scholarly journey through the history of art song, tracing its evolution from its early roots to the vibrant and diverse works of the 21st century. With detailed chapters on iconic composers like Schubert, Brahms, and Debussy, alongside lesser-known figures from around the globe, The Art Song Handbook offers a deep dive into the music, poetry, and cultural contexts that shaped these ...

Welcome to 2090 – where sound no longer just fills the room, it fills your soul. In this Arabic audio edition, visionary cultural ambassador Birgit Maria Kemphues takes You on a magical journey through the soundscapes of the future – deeply rooted in the traditions of the Emirates. From AI-composed oud melodies to quantum-enhanced palm trees that sing at sunrise – this is no ordinary audiobook. This is an immersive tribute to the UAE, its people, its vision, and its rhythm.