Waksman delves into the history of U.S. popular music and culture across the 19th and 20th centuries. His work centers on music technology, the production of identity through sound, and live musical performances in public spaces. He investigates how music shapes our sense of self and incorporates technological advancements. His analyses offer profound insights into the intricate connections between sound, society, and personal expression.
Live Music in America provides the first dedicated survey of music history in the United States as seen through the lens of live performance, offering readers a wide-ranging social and cultural history of American music that touches on race, class, gender, and debates over cultural value.
This work ranges across the history of the electric guitar by focusing on key performers such as Charlie Christian, Les Paul, Chet Atkins, Muddy Waters, Chuck Berry, Jimi Hendrix, the MC5 and Led Zeppelin, who have shaped the use and meaning of the instrument. schovat popis
Focusing on live performance, this book presents a comprehensive survey of American music history, intertwining social and cultural narratives. It explores significant themes such as race, class, and gender, while delving into the ongoing debates regarding cultural value. Through this lens, readers gain insights into how live music has shaped and reflected the diverse American experience.