A leading music journalist's riveting chronicle of how beloved band Pearl Jam shaped the times, and how their legacy and longevity have transcended generations.
Steven Hyden Knihy
The making and meaning of Radiohead's groundbreaking, controversial, epoch- defining album, Kid A.
This thought-provoking exploration delves into Bruce Springsteen's iconic album, Born in the U.S.A., released on June 4, 1984, which became one of the best-selling rock albums ever. It serves as a landmark for both Springsteen and American culture, capturing the essence of the country at that moment while also predicting its future trajectory. In this work, veteran rock critic Steven Hyden addresses essential questions about the album's meaning, creation, and impact. Through a blend of personal memoir, criticism, and journalism, he examines the songs on Born in the U.S.A. and those that didn't make the cut, including tracks from its sister album, Nebraska. Hyden traces Springsteen's journey as he balanced commercial success with artistic integrity, exploring how the artist's subsequent work responded to the album's legacy. The narrative extends beyond Springsteen, situating the album within a broader context of rock music and American society. It reflects on Springsteen's aspirations and the challenges of navigating a tumultuous era marked by Vietnam and Watergate. The album captures a nation in disarray while advocating for unity, influencing a generation of bands seeking to replicate its impact. As political shifts occurred, Hyden questions how the heartland Springsteen depicted transformed and what lessons can be gleaned from the album about America's decline. Through this journey, readers are invited to reflect on the en