Gender Studies and Sex-generic Diversities: Dichotomies and Analytical Crossroads in Investigations on Popular Music

Abstract

This paper analyzes studies on popular music at the crossroads between the gender problematic and sex-generic diversity by way of cultural studies. Bearing in mind this analytical crossroads is present on several debates beyond its specific forum, the aim of this paper is to look at the continuous trend to lead interpretation towards a radical and extreme point of view, in this case, between a judgement which only focuses on the “reproduction” of gender domination and an evaluation that defines certain musical experiences as “challenger” or “autonomous” in the light of the social imperatives established in accordance with the patriarchal structure and heteronormativity. Taking into account previous research in Argentina during recent years and the author’s own research in the City of Buenos Aires during a practice of tango queer dance, this paper intends to shift the dichotomous view on the matter, pointing out the conflictive and contradictory ways in which gender oppression materializes in and by way of music.