What do boy bands from the 1990s have in common with the Beatles? Why are some pop artists, such as Justin Timberlake, considered controversial? Readers will discover these answers and the stories behind beloved artists from the Beach Boys to Lady Gaga through fun and fact-filled text about the roots of pop music and how it has spread around the world. Readers will gain a deeper appreciation for their favorite artists and the pop stars who came before them as they explore a discography of important albums, full-color photographs, annotated quotes from artists and journalists, and fascinating sidebars.

In its 114th year, Billboard remains the world's premier weekly music publication and a diverse digital, events, brand, content and data licensing platform. Billboard publishes the most trusted charts and offers unrivaled reporting about the latest music, video, gaming, media, digital and mobile entertainment issues and trends.

For many people, popular music provides a soundtrack to their lives by entwining emotion with experience. It is little wonder, then, that eventful periods in American history are often defined by the pop music of the time. For example, big band jazz evokes memories of World War II for those who lived through that era, while songs from the 1960s often remind baby boomers of the drug-fueled hippie revolution. Author Stuart Kallen traces the history of popular music in America from the sounds of Tin Pan Alley to Chicago jazz clubs, to southern rock n' roll and country, to the British Invasion, to psychedelic rock and Woodstock, to garage band heroes and music video rock stars, to hip-hop tycoons and young American idols.

Hangin’ Tough is a collection of essays and short stories that celebrate boxing. Jawed Akrim, a lifelong scholar and fan of the noble sport, answers an individual question with each essay or story. The question-and-answer format engages readers and encompass a variety of topics, such as: • Was there ever someone more intimidating than Mike Tyson? • Were people scared to fight Muhammad Ali? • Has a boxer ever been so nervous that they didn’t leave the dressing room? • Who would win in a match between Sonny Liston and Rocky Balboa? • What was the most unrealistic thing that happened in the Rocky movies? Filled with colorful personalities such as boxers Muhammad Ali, Canelo Alvarez, Sonny Banks, Trevor Berbick, David Bey, Joe Louis, and many others, the book also highlights trainers and other sports figures with a connection to the ring. Prepare to be shocked, amazed, and even horrified as you take a walk on the wilder side of boxing history.