In the Groove: Form and Function in Popular Music gives students a clear, concise, accessible introduction to popular music, and the features of popular songs.

Students begin by learning the musical terms and concepts they will use throughout the text to better understand the structures and musicality of various pieces of music. Boxed hints help students with pronunciation, and show how specific terms are applied in specific songs. Boxed warnings minimize confusion between similar terms and concepts, and educate students about common mistakes.

The chapters that follow discuss musical forms, advanced features of songs, and rhythm and meter. The book helps students discover new ways to engage with and think about music they already know and love. It also introduces them to music that is less familiar to them. Reading through the material makes it possible for students to approach all music from a more knowledgeable perspective. A song analysis template is included so students can apply what they have learned.

In the Groove includes diverse musical material that reflects different pop traditions from a variety of eras. The book is an excellent supplemental text for classes in popular music, music history, and music appreciation.