Reading: The Pop, Rock and Soul Reader (ed. David Brackett) Chp 12. Chapter 14-19 and chapters 20-22.
According to the reading, smaller independent record labels were able to succeed, and even thrive, during the post-war era. This led to the development of
rock and roll, as these labels took the lead in experimenting with styles, markets, and tastes. Using two labels mentioned in the readings as contrasting
examples, describe the difficulties that they faced before and after the Great Depression. Second, discuss the techniques by which they worked to overcome
those difficulties. Third, describe the ways in which each carved a niche in genre and marketing. Use the following types of information to guide your essay:
What artists, genres, geographic or social tastes defined each label? Were they successful? Where there any specific ideologies or strategies that they used?
What role did the producers play (did they allow the artists freedom, did they suggest specific songs or stylistic changes)? Who were the important figures?
Sample Solution
