Made in Scotland: Studies in Popular Music

Made in Scotland: Studies in Popular Music provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the history, politics, culture, and musicology of popular music in Scotland from the 20th and 21st centuries. The book features essays by local experts and renowned scholars, covering significant figures, styles, and social contexts, and delves into themes such as Scottishness, independence, and diversity. It offers valuable insights into the complexities of cultural identity, historical imagination, and the impact of power structures in music, making it a must-read for scholars and students interested in the intersection of popular music and Scottish culture.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 186 pages
Publication date: 29 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Made in Scotland: Studies in Popular Music is a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the history, politics, culture, and musicology of popular music in Scotland during the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. Comprising essays written by local experts and renowned scholars in Scottish music and culture, the volume offers a comprehensive account of the major figures, styles, and social contexts that have shaped Scottish popular music. Each essay provides ample context to help readers understand the lasting significance of the figures or genres discussed.

The book begins with a general introduction to Scottish popular music, followed by three thematic sections: Histories, Politics and Policies, and Futures and Imaginings. Through the lens of popular music, this volume examines Scottishness, independence, and diversity, offering fresh perspectives on the complexities of cultural identity, the power of historical imagination, and the impact of power structures in music. It is an essential read for scholars and students interested in exploring how popular music intersects with and influences issues within and beyond the borders of Scotland.

The contributors to Made in Scotland: Studies in Popular Music are drawn from a diverse range of fields, including musicology, cultural studies, history, and sociology. Their essays provide a rich tapestry of insights and perspectives, offering a multi-faceted understanding of the role of popular music in shaping Scotland's cultural landscape.

One of the key themes explored in the volume is the influence of Scottish nationalism on popular music. The essays discuss how musicians have used their music to express and celebrate Scottish identity, as well as to challenge and subvert dominant narratives. They also explore the ways in which popular music has been used to promote and celebrate Scottish independence, both during and after the Scottish referendum in 2014.

Another important theme is the role of women in Scottish popular music. The essays highlight the contributions of female musicians, singers, and songwriters to the genre, and discuss the challenges and barriers they have faced in the industry. They also explore the ways in which popular music has been used to promote gender equality and empower women.

The volume also examines the impact of globalization on Scottish popular music. The essays discuss how the rise of digital technology, international music markets, and the spread of cultural influences have shaped the genre and influenced the ways in which musicians create and perform music. They also explore the ways in which popular music has been used to promote cultural exchange and understanding between Scotland and other countries.

In addition to its academic value, Made in Scotland: Studies in Popular Music is also a valuable resource for music enthusiasts and fans of Scottish popular music. The essays provide a wealth of information and insights into the history, development, and cultural significance of Scottish popular music, and offer a deeper understanding of the genre's rich tapestry of styles and influences.

Overall, Made in Scotland: Studies in Popular Music is a groundbreaking and essential contribution to the field of music studies. It offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the study of popular music in Scotland, and provides new insights into the complex and multifaceted nature of cultural identity, historical imagination, and power structures in music. Whether you are a scholar, student, music enthusiast, or simply interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Scotland, this volume is a must-read.

Weight: 370g
Dimension: 174 x 247 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032161976