Spring Elective: Growing Up to Rock & Roll (and others)

Terms: 1
Grades: 11, 12, PG

In this course we’ll read, watch and listen to some soundtracks of growing up. Through text, film and song, we’ll consider the powerful influence rock, punk and hip hop had on the coming€of€age of musicians, poets, artists and regular teenagers of the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s. Narratives under consideration: The Commitments (novel & film), King Dork (YA novel), Daisy Jones & the Six (novel), Nick & Nora’s Infinite Playlist (novel & film), Blinded by the Light (film), Almost Famous (film), Straight Outta Compton (film), Opal & Nev (novel), Just Kids (memoir), and Easter Rising (memoir). No musical experience, knowledge, or talent required. Appreciation for Otis Redding, Fleetwood Mac, Bruce Springsteen, Patti Smith and NWA encouraged.