Rock of Ages: The Rolling Stone History of Rock and Roll : Book Review

"Rock of Ages" by Ed Ward is a captivating exploration of the history and significance of rock and roll music. Ward, an acclaimed music critic, takes readers on a journey through the origins of this genre and delves into the lives and contributions of its key figures. With meticulous research and a talent for storytelling, Ward brings to life the vibrant and ever-evolving world of rock and roll.

One of the strengths of this book is Ward's extensive knowledge and thorough research. He offers a comprehensive account of the origins of rock and roll, tracing its roots back to blues, gospel, and country music. It's clear from his writing that Ward has a deep passion for the subject, making this an engaging read for both music enthusiasts and casual readers.

Ward's writing style is both accessible and engaging, making complex musical concepts and histories easy to understand. He strikes a perfect balance between being informative and entertaining, hooking readers with interesting anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories. It's evident that the author's love for the music shines through in his writing, making this book not only educational but also a joy to read.

In "Rock of Ages," Ward goes beyond the music itself to explore the cultural and social impact of rock and roll. He discusses how the genre has influenced and been influenced by important historical events, such as the civil rights movement and the Vietnam War. This adds depth and context to the narrative, offering readers a more holistic understanding of the subject matter.

Overall, "Rock of Ages" is an exceptional book that provides a comprehensive and engaging look at the history of rock and roll. Ed Ward's passion for the music is evident throughout the narrative, and his extensive knowledge and research make this an informative read. Whether you're a die-hard rock fan or simply curious about the genre's origins, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in music history.

What are readers saying?

"Rock of Ages" by Ed Ward has received a variety of reviews from readers. The book offers an in-depth exploration of the history of rock 'n' roll, delving into its development and its impact on society. Overall, readers appreciated the author's extensive research and comprehensive knowledge of rock music. Ward's writing style was praised for being accessible and engaging, allowing even those who were not initially passionate about the genre to enjoy the book.

However, some readers found the book to lack a coherent structure, making it difficult to follow the narrative. They were disappointed with the organization of the chapters, which they felt were disjointed at times. Although the book presented a wealth of information, some reviewers felt that a clearer chronological format would have been beneficial.

Some readers also felt that the author's personal opinions occasionally overshadowed the objective analysis of the genre's history. They sensed the influence of Ward's biases in his portrayal of certain artists or eras. This divided readers who had expected an unbiased examination of rock music.

On a positive note, many readers resonated with Ward's enthusiasm for the subject matter, allowing them to experience the passion and energy of rock 'n' roll. The book was praised for evoking nostalgia and creating a sense of connection to the music and its cultural significance. The inclusion of lesser-known artists and diverse perspectives was also appreciated by several readers.

Despite its shortcomings, "Rock of Ages" succeeded in providing a comprehensive overview of rock 'n' roll history. Ward's detailed research and engaging writing style made it an enjoyable read for fans of the genre. While improvements in structure and objectivity could have been made, the book still offered valuable insights into the evolution of rock music.

RockOfAgesBook ClassicLiterature MusicalInspiration