The speaker is Robert Klein, comedian, night show TV host, Saturday Night Live performer, author. I realize that not every person growing up in the 1950s grew up like he did. In fact every person has their own story. But I selected him to be one of the participants in my 6 part television series, Making Sense of the Sixties because he was colorfly able to articulate what he saw and remembered.

The 1950s was a defining moment in the history of America and so many of my subscribers comment on it when I post a video remembering this period. And it is my thesis that was the 1950s, plus the incredible economy America had at that time, that helped provoke what we now call the baby boomer 60s generation. Robert Klein was born a bit too early to be a baby boomer, but I believe he considers himself one, as do I.
This interview was conducted in 1989.

Robert Klein had a successful career in stand-up comedy and appeared in various films and television shows. He was born in the Bronx, New York City, Klein is considered a pioneer in observational comedy and is known for his sharp wit, social commentary and ability to address a wide range of topics in his routines.

Robert Klein was a political liberal and often incorporated politics and social commentary into his routines. He was known for discussing issues like civil rights, environmentalism, and his criticism of various political figures and policies in his stand-up routines.

The history of rock and roll is a fascinating journey that reflects broader social, cultural, and technological changes. Rock and roll emerged in the United States in the late 1940s and early 1950s, drawing from a diverse mix of influences including blues, country, jazz, gospel, and R&B. This new genre was characterized by its energetic rhythm, use of electric guitars, and emphasis on youth culture.

Rock and roll's origins can be traced back to African American musical traditions, which provided the groundwork for rhythm and blues (R&B) - a key precursor to rock and roll. Artists like Chuck Berry, Little Richard, and Fats Domino blended these influences with their unique styles, creating music that appealed to young audiences across racial lines.

The term "rock and roll" was popularized by Cleveland disc jockey Alan Freed in the early 1950s. Freed used the term to describe the amalgamation of R&B, country, and blues music he played on his radio show, which reached a predominantly white, teenage audience. This was a pivotal moment in the genre's development, marking its crossover into mainstream American culture.

The rise of rock and roll coincided with significant technological advancements, including the widespread availability of television and improvements in recording technology. These changes helped artists reach a broader audience, while television programs like "American Bandstand" provided a platform for rock and roll musicians to perform live.

The genre also emerged at a time of significant social change. The post-World War II era was marked by a growing youth culture, with teenagers gaining more autonomy and spending power. Rock and roll, with its themes of rebellion and freedom, resonated with these young audiences, offering an outlet for expression and identification.

The reaction to rock and roll from the older generation was largely negative. Many adults viewed rock and roll with suspicion and disdain, seeing it as a corrupting influence on youth. Critics argued that the music was too sexual, too loud, and too rebellious, fearing it would lead to delinquency and moral decline. This generational divide was not just about music but was reflective of broader anxieties about race, sexuality, and social change.

Rock and roll was also seen as a challenge to racial segregation and the status quo. The genre's African American roots and its popularity among both black and white audiences made it a target for those who sought to maintain racial barriers. This tension was evident in attempts to ban rock and roll music and concerts in certain areas, as well as in the media's often sensationalized coverage of the genre.

Despite (or perhaps because of) these controversies, rock and roll continued to evolve and flourish, giving rise to a variety of subgenres and influencing countless musicians worldwide. Its legacy is evident in the ongoing popularity of rock music and its enduring influence on popular culture. The initial resistance from the older generation has become a notable aspect of the genre's history, illustrating the cyclical nature of cultural change and the transformative power of music.

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