In the 1950s, a new style of music called "rock and roll" blended the rhythm and blues (R&B) music played by black American artists with the sounds of traditional country and western music, gospel, folk music, and other genres. Since its creation, rock music has represented the spirit of young people, often reflecting them at their best: working to improve society, and also to have fun. From Elvis, the Beatles, and Bob Dylan to U2, the Foo Fighters, Imagine Dragons, and Panic! at the Disco, rock music has evolved and changed, but remains as vibrant as ever. The Mason Crest series Evolution and Cultural Influences of Music in Society examines the history and development of popular musical genres. Books in this series provide young readers with a greater understanding of each musical genre, and how it has contributed to and shaped American popular culture over the past half-century.