Author: Shauna Murphy
Drum Kits vs. Drum Machines: The 1980s Debate
Explore the 1980s clash between acoustic drum kits and electronic drum machines. Discover how the TR-808, Linn LM-1, and Simmons kits reshaped music production, economy, and authenticity.
Teaching 1970s Music: A Syllabus Guide for Genres and Techniques
Learn how to design a music education syllabus for 1970s genres. Discover techniques for teaching funk, disco, and punk using informal learning models.
How 1980s Sound Design Shapes Today’s Pop Production
Discover how 1980s tech like the Fairlight CMI, LM-1, and MIDI shaped modern pop. Learn why gated reverb and FM synthesis still define today's biggest hits.
George Clinton’s Solo Work: The 1980s Funk Visionary Continues
Explore George Clinton's 1980s solo era, from the 'Atomic Dog' hit to the strategic rebranding of P-Funk. Discover how these Capitol albums shaped modern funk.
Soul on Television: How Variety Shows and Specials Built Mainstream Visibility
Explore how soul music conquered television through Nat King Cole's pioneering show, Motown's TCB special, and the enduring legacy of Soul Train.
The 1990s Latin Music Boom: How Labels and Promoters Built the Crossover
Explore how the 1990s Latin music boom was engineered by specialist labels, promoters like Ralph Mercado, and strategic crossover efforts leading to Ricky Martin's global success.
Jill Scott and the Art of Neo-Soul: Lyrics, Jazz, and Groove
Explore how Jill Scott defined 1990s neo-soul through earthy lyrics, jazz-inflected vocals, and hip-hop grooves. Discover the artistry behind her iconic sound.
Reissue Culture: How Labels Re-Release 1970s Albums
Discover how labels transform 1970s albums into modern reissues. Learn to spot high-quality remasters, understand analog vs. digital chains, and navigate the collector's market.
The Glam Squad: Stylists, Tailors, and DIY Creators Behind the Look
Discover the hidden forces behind red carpet glamour. From strategic stylists and precision tailors to DIY upcyclers, learn how these roles collaborate to create iconic fashion moments in 2026.
MTV and 1980s Music Fashion: How Videos Changed Style
Discover how MTV transformed 1980s fashion. Learn how artists like Madonna and Michael Jackson turned music videos into global style tutorials, changing how we shop and dress forever.
Regional Press and Alt-Weeklies: How Local Scenes Shaped Music Journalism
Discover how regional press and alt-weeklies shaped local music scenes and launched legendary critics. Explore the rise, fall, and digital evolution of alternative weeklies.
1970s Hard Rock Radio: How FM Formats Amplified Heavy Guitar Music
Discover how 1970s FM radio formats like AOR amplified heavy guitar music. Learn how album-oriented rock replaced AM singles, boosting bands like Led Zeppelin and shaping modern rock.