Rock: A Canadian Perspective is the first and only rock music text to survey the crucial contributions that Canadian musicians have made. It is also unique in its description of the myriad ways that rock 'n' roll has shaped, and then reshaped, Canada's culture since World War II. Specifically, the text covers the development of rock from its roots in the mid-1940s to its current incarnation in the twenty-first century incorporating a Canadian perspective. Some topics discussed include the use of urban folk music for marketing the 'mosaic' concept of Canadian culture; the place of rock 'n' roll music and culture in narratives of 'Americanization'; and the global success of Canadian 'indie' rock bands in the mid-2000s.

In a highly accessible writing style, Rock: A Canadian Perspective engages students with a balance of musical analysis and social context. Students will learn not only how and why rock has changed, but also what rock music sounds like through time. The book is enhanced by rich pedagogy: boxed inserts on significant individuals, recordings, and intriguing topics; well-organized listening charts; and over 70 black and white and colour photographs. This is an ideal text for introductory courses in the history of rock 'n' roll that will encourage Canadian readers to become more critically aware listeners of rock music.

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Jay Hodgson is an associate professor of popular music at Western University, where he teaches courses in songwriting and project paradigm record production. He has provided music for movies featured in Rolling Stone and SPIN magazines, for documentaries produced by the United Nations, and for companies such as the YMCA. He has produced, mixed, and mastered more than 500 tracks recently for record labels as far afield as Sierra Leone, Ibiza, Berlin, New York City, and Montreal. His book Understanding Records was recently acquired by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Reading Room.

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"This is a truly comprehensive survey of popular music with much to offer the Canadian student in popular music. The (book's) strengths are its breadth, its attention to detail, and its concise language. Specifically though, the Canadian content and Canadian context make this an unusual and refreshing book." --Kirsten Yri, WLU

"It introduces Canadian subject matter to its Canadian audiences. This strength is beyond major; it is phenomenal. Frankly, I was moved and will be thrilled to introduce it to my students." -- Norman Standield, UBC