Course

This course covers the golden age of American rock ’n’ roll, 1965–75, and is taught chronologically and geographically across regions where key movements sprung up. The six classes will be presented as a journey through those regions that were at the forefront of rock ’n’ roll. We will encounter LA: ground zero for surf, folk, pop, psychedelic, and country-rock; the SF sound 1965-71; the singer-songwriters of Laurel Canyon; NY, NY: the sounds of I-95, 1965-75; instrumentals, one-hit wonders and great garage bands of the ’60s. The course ends with a tribute to Leon Russell, the master of space and time. Guest musicians include Carol Curtis, John Blakeley, Joe Cadora, Bill Garvin, David Martin, and Bob "Justice" Lindfors. Note: You do not need to have taken Part 1 to fully enjoy this course.  

Faculty Bio

Pete Elman is a musician, an author, a journalist, a historian — and a star educator. He has performed, recorded and produced popular music since 1962, authored four books, been a sportswriter, taught K-12, and, since 2015, has wowed OLLI members with more than a dozen courses on American music. Pete has taught with us for a decade — 10 years down the road!

This is a Best of OLLI Course

• Best of OLLI courses are popular courses recorded a previous term
• Videos are available to watch the moment you sign up through Dec. 31
• Please note: Due to copyright restrictions, some songs and video clips have been edited out of the final recordings
• Accessible to Annual Plus, Premium Plus, Best of OLLI and Fee Assistance members. Learn about membership.
• Current Annual and Premium members can upgrade to Annual Plus or Premium Plus for an additional $10

Member Praise for Pete Elman

Another wonderful class from Pete! Once again, he added to my appreciation and understanding of the music and contributions from artists I already have enjoyed and admired for so long.

I gained so much appreciation for the musicians and their music than I expected to. Very, very enjoyable. I'll take any course Pete Elman offers.

Faculty Q&A

• Read an interview with Pete Elman from our archive.