Author

Bryan M. WaringFollow

Grrrls, Grrrls, Grrrls: Incorporating Feminist Theory Into Punk Rock Composition

Publication Date

Spring 4-28-2022

Abstract

This project argues that one can make rock music with anti-sexist values by incorporating feminist criticism and gendered performance into the composition of punk rock music. To test this thesis, the history of feminism and its implementation within musical discourse were examined. Using feminist music theory as a lens for observation, several songs from female artists and mix-gender bands within the punk genre were analyzed. This was done in order to find similarities in compositional practices and to explore punk rock’s symbolic representations of gender. Areas covered were the expression of jouissance by the proto-punks, the use of détournement by UK punk bands, the reclamation of the "monstrous-feminine" by goth punks, the subversive utilization of noise by bands of avant-garde punk movements, and the appropriation of girlhood aesthetics by riot grrrls. Compositional decisions informed by this research were used during the writing and recording of five original punk rock songs to convey anti-sexist values.

Major Mentor

Virginia Lamothe, Ph.D.

Second Mentor

Tony Moreira, Ph.D.

Third Mentor

Clare Eng, Ph.D.

Department

Music, School of

College

Music and Performing Arts, College of

Document Type

Thesis

Degree

Master of Music (MM)

Degree Level

Master's

Degree Grantor

Belmont University

Recommended Citation

Waring, Bryan M., "Grrrls, Grrrls, Grrrls: Incorporating Feminist Theory Into Punk Rock Composition" (2022). Composition/Recording Projects. 5.
https://repository.belmont.edu/music_comp/5