Progressive Rock developed in the late 1960s and reached the height of its popularity in the early '70s. Setting aside the simplistic musical traditions of rock, these bands turned to other sources like jazz and especially classical music for inspiration. While prog does not enjoy the popularity it once did, the music carries on, with new bands picking up the progressive rock banner.

Hallmarks of the genre include skillful composition, musical complexity, and virtuosic musicianship. Most listeners of progressive rock tend to enjoy music that must be studied and digested to be appreciated.