A Stage of Their Own: Hegemonic Patriarchy in the Rock and Roll Music Industry

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Date

2024

Authors

Krueger, Kayla

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

University of Oregon

Abstract

This thesis serves as a rebuttal to Jann Wenner’s interview with the New York Times in September 2023, in which he states women are inferior to men in the rock and roll music industry. Through a historical analysis of the gender dynamics in the industry, it becomes evident to the reader that hegemonic patriarchy has been at the forefront of industry control. Men have assumed positions of power in the rock music industry, both onstage and off. Women have been viewed as incompetent in the industry, thus placing them in subordinate positions. This text features statistical analysis from the 2023 USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative study: “Inclusion in the Recording Studio?” as well as interviews with five women in the industry. This text offers a holistic view into the female experience in the rock and roll industry and how gender-based discrimination directly affects the careers of women and queer people. There is systematic marginalization of women and queer people in the rock industry. Through the application of patriarchal hegemony and heteronormative structures, women have historically experienced limited opportunities and recognition. Finally, this thesis aims to recognize gender-based discrimination in the industry, as well as reclaim space for women and queer people in the rock and roll music industry.

Description

38 pages

Keywords

Music, Gender, Patriarchy, Rock, Feminism

Citation