To provide an overview of the development of Anglo-American popular music from the mid-twentieth century onwards.  To examine specific stylistic developments and movements in the period covered by the module.  To introduce general issues and critical perspectives within the field of popular music studies. To consider the relationship between musical, social, economic and technological factors in the music and period in question. To provide students with a grounding in core study skills for HE.

(LO1) To demonstrate an understanding of the key features of different styles/genres of popular music.

(LO2) To identify significant individuals, groups, and events in the development of popular music in the period from the mid-twentieth century onwards.

(LO3) To demonstrate an understanding of the process of musical development (e.g. the emergence of new genres).

(LO4) To identify some of the ways in which social, economic and technological factors impact on the production and reception of popular music.

(LO5) To be able to apply knowledge, understanding, and awareness (as described in prior leaning outcomes) to original case-study examples.

(LO6) To bBe able to produce a bibliography in a given format.

(S1) Communication skills (oral and written)

(S2) Research skills (identifying relevant material)

(S3) Comprehension (absorbing and interpreting materal)

(S4) Critical thinking (synthesis)

(S5) Writing skills (academic writing, including structure, argument, and referencing)

(S6) Applied skills (music analysis)

(S7) IT skills (generic, and via online material)

The module comprises two main elements: an overview of key styles and genres in Anglo-American popular music; and a review of critical issues and debates relevant to understanding and interpreting the music under consideration. Key styles/genres covered include: - blues and classic rock - progressive rock and punk - indie - rap and hip-hop - disco and dance Key critical issues covered include: The definition and emergence of 'popular' music - popular music and identity (youth identity, sub-cultural identity, political identity etc). Commercial and industry contexts (including the impact of digital distribution etc). Aesthetics and value-judgements in popular music - postmodernism and the blurring of genre-boundaries.

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description: Lectures introduce core topics and concepts
Teaching Method 2 - Seminar
Description: Seminars facilitate further exploration of topics introduced in lectures via small group discussion
Teaching Method 3 - E-lecture
Description: Skills videos for watching in students' own time, plus short activities to consolidate learning