20th Century Rock & Roll—Women in Rock : Book Review

"20th Century Rock & Roll: Women in Rock" by Dale Sherman offers a captivating and comprehensive exploration of the significant contributions and lasting impact of women in the rock music industry. With meticulous research and insightful analysis, Sherman highlights the struggles, triumphs, and cultural significance of these influential female musicians.

The book spans an impressive range of women, from trailblazers like Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Big Mama Thornton to modern icons such as Patti Smith and Courtney Love. Sherman delves into the challenges faced by these women in an industry predominantly dominated by men, showcasing their resilience and determination to break barriers and challenge societal norms.

One of the book's greatest strengths is Sherman's ability to provide historical and contextual analysis. He delves into the social and cultural factors that shaped the opportunities and limitations for women in rock music, offering readers a vivid understanding of the landscape these women navigated. This not only enhances the informative nature of the book but also makes it engaging and compelling.

Sherman's writing style is accessible and engaging, making it suitable for both music enthusiasts and casual readers. The book seamlessly weaves together anecdotes, interviews, and historical facts, creating a cohesive narrative that captivates readers. Moreover, Sherman's extensive research is evident throughout the book, as he draws from a wide range of sources to provide a comprehensive overview of the subject matter.

In conclusion, "20th Century Rock & Roll: Women in Rock" is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of rock music. Dale Sherman's dedication to documenting the contributions of women in this genre is evident in his meticulously researched and passionately written book. It is a celebration of women's resilience, creativity, and impact, serving as a poignant reminder of their crucial role in shaping the story of rock and roll.

What are readers saying?

Dale Sherman's book, "20th Century Rock & Roll: Women in Rock," has elicited a range of responses from readers. Some reviewers have lauded the book for its extensive coverage and insightful analysis of influential female figures in rock music. They appreciate the author's meticulous research and his efforts in documenting the contributions of various women in the industry. These readers find the book informative and value the inclusion of lesser-known stories and anecdotes, which broaden their understanding of rock history.

However, there are critics who express disappointment with the book's narrow focus. They argue that Sherman neglects to explore the lives and impact of lesser-known and underground female rock artists, instead prioritizing more mainstream figures. These reviewers believe that the book misses an opportunity to shed light on the untold stories of women who have made significant contributions to rock music, but have been overshadowed by larger acts.

Another point of contention among readers is the perceived lack of analysis and critical engagement in Sherman's book. They contend that he simply introduces various female artists without offering substantial commentary or evaluating their work critically. This omission leaves some feeling that the book lacks depth and fails to fully explore the significance of these women's contributions to the genre.

Furthermore, a few reviewers express dissatisfaction with the organization and structure of "20th Century Rock & Roll: Women in Rock." They find it difficult to follow the book's progression and believe that it lacks a cohesive narrative thread. Some readers suggest that incorporating more interviews or personal insights from the artists themselves would have enhanced the overall reading experience.

In conclusion, "20th Century Rock & Roll: Women in Rock" by Dale Sherman has garnered both positive and negative feedback. While some readers appreciate the book's informative content and thorough research, others criticize its limited scope, lack of analysis, and organizational issues.

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