Referring to psychoanalytic theories on adolescent crises and narcissism, the author proposes some hypotheses as to the psychological function of 'rock' music, illustrated by a case report. The sound of 'rock' is assumed to allay adolescent depersonalization tendencies, while the amplified yells of the young bandleaders offer the possibility of identifying with parents and crying baby (the 'grandiose self'). Their 'protest' voices the struggle of youth for identity. Last but not least, they facilitate the integration of the homosexual ideal.