<P> Rock musicians and fans have consistently struggled with the paradox of "selling out"--to be considered "authentic", rock music must keep a certain distance from the commercial world and its constructs; however it is widely believed that certain compromises must be made in order to become successful and to make music available to the public . This dilemma has created friction between musicians and fans, with some bands going to great lengths to avoid the appearance of "selling out" (while still finding ways to make a lucrative living). In some styles of rock, such as punk and heavy metal, a performer who is believed to have "sold out" to commercial interests may be labelled with the pejorative term "poseur". </P> <P> If a performer first comes to public attention with one style, any further stylistic development may be seen as selling out to long - time fans . On the other hand, managers and producers may progressively take more control of the artist, as happened, for instance, in Elvis Presley's swift transition in species from "The Hillbilly Cat" to "your teddy bear". It can be difficult to define the difference between seeking a wider audience and selling out . Ray Charles left behind his classic formulation of rhythm and blues to sing country music, pop songs and soft - drink commercials . In the process, he went from a niche audience to worldwide fame . In the end, it is a moral judgement made by the artist, the management, and the audience . </P> <P> Love and peace were very common themes in rock music during the 1960s and 1970s . Rock musicians have often attempted to address social issues directly as commentary or as calls to action . During the Vietnam War the first rock protest songs were heard, inspired by the songs of folk musicians such as Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan, which ranged from abstract evocations of peace Peter, Paul and Mary's "If I Had a Hammer" to blunt anti-establishment diatribes Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young's "Ohio". Other musicians, notably John Lennon and Yoko Ono, were vocal in their anti-war sentiment both in their music and in public statements with songs such as "Imagine", and "Give Peace a Chance". </P> <P> Famous rock musicians have adopted causes ranging from the environment (Marvin Gaye's "Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)") and the Anti-Apartheid Movement (Peter Gabriel's "Biko"), to violence in Northern Ireland (U2's "Sunday Bloody Sunday") and worldwide economic policy (the Dead Kennedys' "Kill the Poor"). Another notable protest song is Patti Smith's recording "People Have the Power ." On occasion this involvement would go beyond simple songwriting and take the form of sometimes - spectacular concerts or televised events, often raising money for charity and awareness of global issues . </P>

How did rock n roll impact american culture in the 1950s