Journal of Popular Music Studies
Scope & Guideline
Innovating Scholarship in the World of Sound
Introduction
Aims and Scopes
- Cultural Studies Approaches:
The journal emphasizes the significance of cultural contexts in understanding popular music, exploring how music interacts with identity, community, and cultural practices. - Political and Social Analysis:
It investigates the interplay between music and societal issues, such as race, gender, and class, thus highlighting the role of music in social movements and political discourse. - Transnational Perspectives:
The journal explores the global dimensions of popular music, examining cross-cultural influences and the dynamics of music in a transnational context. - Interdisciplinary Methodologies:
Research published in the journal employs diverse methodologies, including ethnography, historical analysis, and critical theory, to provide comprehensive insights into popular music phenomena. - Technological Impact:
The journal addresses the implications of technology on music production, distribution, and consumption, especially in the context of digital media and the evolving music industry.
Trending and Emerging
- Queer and Gender Studies:
There is a growing emphasis on queer narratives and gender studies within popular music, exploring the intersections of identity, representation, and culture, which reflects broader societal discussions about gender and sexuality. - Digital Culture and Music Consumption:
Research focusing on the impact of digital platforms on music consumption, including streaming services and social media, has seen an increase, highlighting the changing landscape of how music is created and experienced. - Social Justice and Activism:
Themes related to social justice, particularly in the context of hip-hop and other genres, are trending, indicating a heightened awareness of music's role in activism and societal change. - Globalization and Cultural Hybridity:
Emerging studies are increasingly examining the effects of globalization on music, particularly how cultural hybridization shapes contemporary musical practices and identities. - Podcasting and New Media:
The rise of podcasts as a medium for music discussion and critique is being recognized, with research exploring how this format influences music journalism and audience engagement.
Declining or Waning
- Traditional Genre Studies:
There has been a noticeable decline in papers strictly focused on traditional genre categorizations, such as rock or pop music, as the journal shifts towards more nuanced, interdisciplinary explorations of music. - Historical Narratives without Contemporary Relevance:
Research that solely emphasizes historical accounts of popular music without connecting these narratives to contemporary cultural or social issues has become less frequent, reflecting a trend towards relevance in current discourse. - Static Analyses of Music Production:
Papers that analyze music production techniques in isolation, without considering broader cultural or technological contexts, seem to be diminishing, indicating a shift towards more integrated approaches. - Regional Studies with Limited Scope:
Regional studies that do not engage with transnational or global connections are appearing less often, suggesting a preference for research that highlights interconnectedness in popular music.
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