Dissertation

Deconstructing the rock anthem: textual form, participation and collectivity

Dockwray, Ruth

2005

Overview

This thesis focuses on the main attributes of rock anthems. It asks the questions, 'What makes a rock anthem?' and 'How may we define a rock anthem?'. Through textual analysis and paralinguistic analysis, the thesis discusses aspects of multi-modal participation, such as singing, clapping, swaying and waving that have become identifiable features of rock anthems. The musical analysis highlights common musical and lyrical attributes that prove to be conducive in creating vocal participation from audiences. The pedagogical nature of rock anthems is highlighted, through musical analysis and also through an analysis of music video. The world-wide knowledge of the accompanying rock anthem gestures is discussed with reference to the influence of video as a form of mediation in teaching audiences how and when to participate. The gestural participation that is generated in rock anthem performances is discussed in terms of its communicative role and the production of collectivity. The thesis also further explores the idea of band/audience interaction in a live context to create one performer and the notion of the rock community, with particular reference to the 1985 'Live Aid' concert. The musical and social role of rock anthems is considered in new types of anthems. The discussion of other anthems such as football and dance anthems highlights the continuity-change that has taken place, emphasising the community building feature of anthems. While new forms of anthems, as socio-musical practices have emerged, the anthem as a term is also considered. The mass mediation of 'anthem' through CD compilations and the impact media has had on the spread of the 'anthem' as a label is also discussed

• Publisher: ProQuest Dissertations & Theses
• Subject: Music