The document provides an overview of American popular music from 1960 to 2000. It includes summaries of musical characteristics from the 1960s such as upbeat but not happy lyrics, moderate to fast tempos, some use of call and response, and repetitive verse-refrain patterns. It notes that music in this era had less focus on instruments and more focus on vocals and synthesized textures compared to 1950s rock. Example artists mentioned include Bon Jovi, Michael Jackson, Prince, The Police, and Madonna. The document also includes note templates to analyze specific decades and artists, with examples focusing on Michael Jackson and Sting/The Police.

1. AmEriCAn PoPular MuSic
1960 - 2000
1960’s -2000 Rock Listening Guide Summary (Option # 5)
Artists you listened to:
Bon Jovi Michael Jackson
Prince The Police
Madana
Summary of musical characteristics:
(site specific songs as examples)
Lyrics: Mostly upbeat but not happy. Really
varies between artists albums and songs.
Songs like “Billie Jean” sound upbeat
but are really blues like
Tempo: Moderate to fast. Some slow songs but
majority moderate
Call and Response: In some songs but not often. The police
use in some of there work.
Repetitive Pattern
(form):
Verse refrain pattern. True
transformation into modern style
Texture: Synthesized. Less instrumental more
vocal
List the musical character, overall, that were different from 1950’s Rock.
Less about the music more about the singing
How were the musical characteristics different or unique from 1950’s Rock?
Less guitar more synthesizers. More vocals throughout the song less
instrumental verses.