Popular music has been a major force in the world since the 19th century. With the advent of electronic and advanced technology it has become ubiquitous. This is the first volume in a series of encyclopedic works covering popular music of the world, consisting of some 500 entries by 130 contributors from around the world. Entries range between 250 and 5000 words, arranged in two parts: part I: social and cultural dimensions, covering the social phenomena of relevance to the practice of popular music. Part II: the industry, covers all aspects of the popular music industry, such as copyright, instrumental manufacture, management and marketing, record corporations, studios, companies, and labels.