Backstreet Bathory

Voiceover

Presenter(s)

Sam Hendrickson

Abstract or Description

This essay examines fandom from the point of view of disparate identities in fan culture. Using the fandom theoretical framework outlined by such authors as Duffet and Jenkins, this essay seeks to find similarities in fan communities that are stereotypically viewed as dichotomous. In addition to the  theoretical groundwork, personal stories and anecdotes will be utilized to bridge the perceived gap between different fan communities. Both authors are long-time music fans themselves, one of heavy metal and one of boy band music. Their perspective from inside the community will be able to identify otherwise unknown behaviors and how they fit within the framework written by fandom scholars. The research revolves around three key stages of fandom; perception of fandom from outside the community, fandom as viewed from inside the community, and long-term fandom. Within these three main points of exploration, we will examine how identity and community evolve as one moves through the stages of fandom. The authors argue that within all the stages of fandom, there are more commonalities than differences in fan communities of heavy metal and boy band music.

Mentor

Lacy Lowrey