Southern Masculinity in American Rock Music

Abstract

In the United States it is often said American music is actually southern music, considering how all the genres considered ‘Americana’ originated in the southeastern region of the country. Even though rock-n-roll seems to have evolved well beyond the music’s regional roots, a historical analysis of rock over the last half century reveals the music retains its connection to southern masculine rebelliousness. While rock has undergone many changes and now exists in many subgenres, the music is still primarily written and performed by men, for audiences comprised of men. These male musicians use their music and vocals to express the frustration that come from an economically marginalized existence in the world’s richest country. By illustrating ways to rebel against the middle-class status quo, musicians and singers become more than just artists, but also role models as they musically express ways all men can compensate for a marginalized class status and reclaim their masculinity.