The classic history from Rolling Stone that brings to life the evolution of a dynamic, revolutionary art form. Beginning with rock's roots in blues, jazz and gospel, here are eye-opening portraits and critical assessments of Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry, the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, James Brown and Bob Dylan, and more, all the way up to Bruce Springsteen, Madonna, U2, Prince, Public Enemy and other ground-breakers in rock, hip-hop, and heavy metal.

The essays are by the world's preeminent rock writers--among them Greil Marcus, Robert Palmer, David Fricke, Dave Marsh, Robert Christgau, Chuck Eddy, Stephen Holen, Bill Flanagan, Alan Light, J.D. Considine and many others.

The photography in the Illustrated History is superlative, representing the works of the most celebrated photographers along with rare snapshots and long-lost photos from the early days of rock. Complete with detailed discographies on every important performer and genre, The Rolling Stone Illustrated History of Rock & Roll is an indispensable reference for every fan.