How would you describe your favourite artist? Are you proud to be a fan?

Are there artists you are less likely to tell people you’re a fan of? Why do you think that might be?

Many of us have deeply personal relationships with music. Music can shape our identities, connect us to culture, spirituality, and history; impact our moods, help us unlock understanding and develop empathy; be used as a tool for change and dissent; and can become a passion or a career. 

We tend to revere those with musical talent — though our admiration may be shaped by larger social forces.

For example, some genres get more respect than others. 

Music favoured by teenage girls is often mocked, and female artists face increased scrutiny about things far beyond their music. Why is that? Do we gender genres of music? And if so, who does that serve?

Music is also an outlet. For many, it is a way to challenge societal norms, including patriarchy. Is music an acceptable avenue for men to be vulnerable, or to push back against patriarchal expectations? Is this true for all men?

And what about the commercialization of music? 

At the top, the music industry looks like many other ‘old boys clubs’. The gatekeepers in music — executives, agents, producers, etc — are largely men. How did this shape the music industry and society as a whole? What influence will this have on the future as social media and streaming continue to change how people engage with music, and how musicians earn proceeds from their art?

Join us on Sunday June 23rd at the Soundhouse Recording Studio at 10 am PT as together we delve into how music and masculinity shape and influence one another. Coffee and donuts will be provided! 

We look forward to seeing you there!

Join NGM volunteers, members, and new friends as we dive into the discussion, one question at a time! Our focus is typically on how men and masculinity fit into the feminist movement, but folks of all genders & backgrounds are welcome to attend.