This book presents an analysis of 100 rock concert performances and attempts to answer the question "What makes a truly great rock performance?" Author Peter Smith, an experienced concert goer, delves into his own recollections of experiencing rock performances over the last 50+ years and, with the support of his daughter, Laura Smith, analyzes 100 selected performances covering the themes of icons, persona, energy, fandom, venues, communities, politics, art-rock, authenticity and maturity. The approach taken is based upon qualitative analysis, reflection, and autoethnography. The selected performances cover a range of diverse acts such as the Rolling Stones, ABBA, Sex Pistols, Barbara Streisand, David Bowie, and the like.

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Overall, the book is an interesting read, and the author readily recognizes a personal bias, which is inherent in any “top 100”–type list…. [T]he data set Smith created with his post-show blogging gives readers insight into concert experiences that could not otherwise be accessed. The book is a solid addition to the "For the Record: Lexington Studies in Rock and Popular Music" series. Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates through faculty and professionals; general readers.