Damaged: Musicality and Race in Early American Punk

The book "Damaged: Musicality and Race in Early American Punk" explores how punk evolved in response to shifting attitudes about race in American society from the late 1960s to the early 1980s, using musical analysis, archival research, and new interviews. It reveals a historically oriented approach to rock that is different from common myths and conceptions, reflecting new versions of older exchanges between the US and the UK, changing environments, and a shift from older baby boomers to younger musicians of Generation X.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2020
Publisher: University Press of Mississippi

Damaged: Musicality and Race in Early American Punk is a groundbreaking exploration of punk as a musical genre, delving into its evolution in response to shifting notions of race in American society from the late 1960s to the early 1980s. Through a comprehensive blend of musical analysis, archival research, and fresh interviews, the book offers fresh perspectives on race and American society during this transformative era, shedding light on its enduring significance in contemporary culture.

In his insightful work, Evan Rapport traces the origins of punk to the dramatic transformations that occurred in American cities and suburbs during the postwar era, particularly in relation to race. The musical styles that paved the way for punk encompassed a range of innovative approaches, including the reimagining of blues resources, the exploration of experimental visions of American musical heritage, and the audacious reworkings of rock and rhythm-and-blues sounds from the late 1950s and early 1960s. This historical-oriented approach to rock sets punk apart from the common misconceptions and myths surrounding the genre.

Throughout the book, Rapport delves into the discourses and contradictory narratives of punk history, challenging the traditional narratives that have been documented in historical texts and revealed through musical analysis. He explores the ways in which punk reflected new iterations of older exchanges between the United States and the United Kingdom, as well as the changing environments of American suburbs and cities. Rapport also examines the shift from the expressions of older baby boomers to the music of younger musicians belonging to Generation X, reflecting the changing cultural landscape of the time.

Damaged: Musicality and Race in Early American Punk is a seminal work that offers a profound understanding of punk as a musical genre and its profound impact on American society. Through its meticulous research, insightful analysis, and engaging storytelling, the book provides a valuable contribution to the study of music, culture, and social history. It serves as a testament to the enduring power of music to shape and reflect the times in which we live.

Weight: 574g
Dimension: 155 x 235 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496831224