-[V]alue for money (on a scale of one to five, five being good, a five). Very much a book for the school, college, and university library where rock music is both studied and simply enjoyed, and good for public library reference... Durable, easy-to-handle and carry about, a must for any specialist researcher, for a lecturer preparing courses in the field, and for anyone priding themselves on knowledge of rock history. —Reference Reviews

-This six-volume set is an all-inclusive history of rock from its early days in the 1950's up through the decades to the grunge and post-grunge years, 1991-2005. It brings an understanding of rock music, and treats it as not just entertainment but as part of culture--how rock has shaped and been shaped by culture. The chapters in this set provide b&w photos, fact boxes, and narratives about musicians, writers, producers, trends, concerts, and much more....This set would be valuable for those doing research and appealing to those who are interested in reading about the history or rock. Recommended. —Library Media Connection

-[E]ngagingly written, and the overall design of each volume is well thought out and easy to use. The photographs of the various performers and performing groups add a great touch. The timeline that opens each volume is very helpful in placing a specific group or movement in its wider historical conext. The glossary at the end of each volume provides brief descriptions of personalities, record labels, and important musical titles. The reference guide or bibliography in each volume is extensive. In addition, each volume's index is thorough and includes cross references....Because of its thoroughness and scholarly approach, The Greenwood Encyclopedia of Rock History is an indispensable set that should be placed in the collections of all public libraries and in academic libraries serving music programs. —Reference & User Services Quarterly