DESCRIPTION: The course will investigate some of the social, ethical, and psychological implications of popular music upon theology, and in turn seek a theological engagement with the diverse and varied contours of popular music. We live in an age where popular music provides a "soundtrack" to our lives; this course will explore the theological implications of this cultural artifact.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Through examination and investigation of popular music, interactive discussion, and class lectures, students will (1) gain a broad understanding of both the structure and social contexts of popular music; (2) gain an understanding of the moral and philosophical drive of many areas of popular music; (3) be equipped to engage theologically with one of the most important dynamics of contemporary culture; and (4) understand the ways in which popular music influences and shapes contemporary church and worship life.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Music plays an integral role in contemporary life, it also plays a pivotal role in both congregational worship and evangelism--this class will equip those seeking to engage contemporary culture, be it in a pastoral ministry or social setting, by deepening our understanding of the nature of music and its role in our lives. The class will also be of benefit to aspiring/practicing musicians and composers.

COURSE FORMAT: Classes will be divided between lecture and interactive discussion combined with multimedia approaches to listening and understanding popular music. Class will meet twice weekly in two-hour sessions.

REQUIRED READING:
Frith, Simon. Performing Rites. Pantheon, 1981.
Stephens, Ken. What to Listen for in Rock. Yale University Press, 2002.
Hesmondaugh, David, and Keith Negus. Popular Music Studies. Oxford University Press, 2002.
Storey, John. Cultural Studies and the Study of Popular Culture. University Georgia Press, 1996.
Vanhoozer, Kevin J., ed. Everyday Theology. Baker Academic, 2007.
* Listening to a selection of popular music spanning the history of the medium will be a required part of the curriculum (guidelines for this will be presented in class).

RECOMMENDED READING:

Baker, Jonny, and Doug Gay, with Jenny Brown. Alternative Worship. SPCK, 2003.

Dylan, Bob. Chronicles Vol. 1. Simon & Schuster, 2004.

Kahney, Leander. The Cult of iPod. San Francisco: No Starch Press, 2005.

1. Three two-page book reviews (30%).

2. A two-page essay, typed and double-spaced, which outlines the student's music preferences, instrumental capabilities, and aspirations (20%).

3. A twelve- to fifteen-page paper rooted in field research on one of the musical genres covered in the course. Papers will forge a theological response to the research gathered. Students will study specific music genres (guidelines will be given in class) and include a plan for a theological presentation in their life and ministry (50%).