'90s Alternative and Philosophy: Modern Rock Meditations

Since the mid-1960s, musicians have pushed the boundaries of rock and roll, leading to the rise of proto-punk, post-punk, new wave, goth, indie, emo, grunge, college rock, and numerous other subgenres that challenged the status quo of popular music. By the early 1990s, the variety of influences merged into more of a unified force that became known as alternative rock, defined by creativity, experimentation, and cultural influence.

This volume brings together a group of '90s alternative rock fans, who also happen to be professional philosophers, to reflect on the music, artistry, and cultural significance of the decade. Contributors explore why alternative music resonated heavily with audiences, and the factors that have led to its continued influence over time. Intended for both longtime listeners and those hoping to gain a deeper understanding of the genre, the essays explore what made '90s alternative music meaningful, enduring, and influential.