A novelist discusses his love of music and how it inspires his writing, including his infatuation with the Velvet Underground as well as more modern bands including Magnetic Fields, Wilco, and The Pogues.

Is there a song that changed your life? NPR's music authority Bob Boilen posed that question to some of today's best-loved musical legends and rising stars. In their answers the artists reflect on pivotal moments that inspired their work.

Explores the history of rock music and features the famous bands associated with each stage, including Chuck Berry, the Beatles, Pink Floyd, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Presents a history of country music in the United States, profiles the genre's most notable past and present stars, and features must-have song and album suggestions.

Featuring more than 250 interviews with members of Black Sabbath, Megadeth, Pantera, Korn and many others over the past 25 years, this examination of the cultural phenomenon provides an expert analysis of the heavy metal scene from the '60s to the present.

Explores the history of alternative rock music and features the famous bands associated with each stage, including the Grateful Dead, R.E.M., and the White Stripes.

Featuring 666 standout metal songs from 1960 to the present day and illustrated with sleeves, flyers, posters and magazine ads, this is a feast for fans who love it loud. 666 Songs to Make You Bang Your Head Until You Die delves into the dark corners of hard rock and metal, unearthing hidden treasures and shining fresh light on old favourites. From pioneers like Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin, through million-sellers like Van Halen and AC/DC, to skull-crushers...