What are the strengths and weaknesses of Peterson's production of culture approach to the birth of Rock n' Roll

Peterson makes reasonable arguments on how the music industry changed dramatically after the end of the monopoly of the main four record companies. However, he makes the whole phenomenon sound too much of a techinical revolution rather than stressing the Rock n' Roll music itself or the formation of the rebellious new youth subculture. Peterson notes six key factors that are vital in the development of the style; law, technology, industry- and organisation structure as well as occupational career and market. Peterson's theory of the industry structure could probably be applied for other cultural industries as well. The cultural environment at the time and the commercial industry changes that happened conveniently, ensured an excellent timing for a new style to emerge. The rise of the independent record companies and the alternative music on 7inch formats did change the industry substantially, but whether it was really that technical as Peterson suggests may not be entirely true.

What is popular music?

Popular music is a global business that can be hybrid of traditions and contemporary influences. It can be used to express identity as it is also recognized as a music genre. Adorno suggested that pop music is standardized. Pop music is a product that listeners buy, it is accessible and widely listened mass commodity produced by people who do it for living. Standardised songs may have a same structure. Popular is something that belongs to the people. (Williams) In the past it had a connotation of 'low" -culture.Popular was understood as something home made, ordinary. To be able to understand pop music, one doesn't have to be educated or have studied music. Popular music is aimed for everyone's enjoyment.