Exploring the Depths of Electronic Dance Music: A Conversation with Chris Conner
Electronic Dance Music (EDM) often conjures images of vibrant festivals, pulsing beats, and a kaleidoscope of lights. However, for Chris Conner, an assistant teaching professor of sociology at the University of Missouri, EDM transcends mere entertainment; it embodies a rich tapestry of cultural history, social movements, and community spirit.
The Roots of EDM: A Cultural Lens
Conner’s journey into the world of EDM began during the 1980s and ‘90s when he worked as a promoter for nightclubs, raves, and industrial music shows. This early exposure allowed him to witness the intricate dynamics within the EDM community.
“As I was working in these clubs with these bands and spaces, I realized that sociology was all around me,” Conner reflected. He recognized that EDM was not just about music but rather a modern expression of counterculture—a movement reminiscent of the 1960s’ social upheaval.
A Safe Haven for Diversity
EDM’s inception in underground spaces was not merely a backdrop for revelry—it was an intentional effort to dismantle societal hierarchies based on gender and race. These environments were particularly significant for marginalized communities, especially LGBTQ individuals, providing a sense of family and belonging.
During its formative years, the EDM community cultivated a motto: “peace, love, unity, and respect.” This mantra spoke to the core values that underpinned the music and culture. However, Conner notes a contemporary shift in this ideology. The original concept of “respect” has been transformed into “movement,” suggesting a broader sociopolitical function of the EDM scene today.
Beyond Music: Activism and Community
The initial days of EDM often saw event organizers prioritizing community engagement through initiatives like food drives and social activism. Concerts acted as platforms for social justice, reinforcing the idea that music can be a catalyst for change.
However, Conner observed a troubling trend: as EDM gained mainstream popularity, corporatization began to erode its grassroots foundations. This prompted him to delve deeper into these changes, leading to the publication of his book, “Electronic Dance Music: From Deviant Subculture to Culture Industry.” In it, he dissects how economic pressures have transformed the ED industry and impacted the cultural ethos that once characterized it.
The Loss of Iconic Spaces
As larger companies began to dominate the EDM landscape, the intimate environments that once fostered community were lost. Conner poignantly remarks, “Moving into clubs and festivals is in some ways a bit of an upgrade, but at the same time, we saw a lot of iconic spaces close.” For many, especially in the LGBTQ community, these venues transcended entertainment; they served as vital cultural landmarks.
The commodification of EDM is central to Conner’s research, which he describes as “commodified resistance.” This term captures the paradox of how spaces initially designed for community and self-expression become subject to market forces, risking their authenticity.
The Importance of Preserving Culture
Conner urges that certain elements of culture should be guarded against commodification. Certain spaces, ideals, and practices deserve preservation because they hold deep social significance. “If we want to preserve our cultural institutions, whether that be EDM or even sports, we have to ensure that those organizations continue to focus on the reasons that make them great,” he emphasizes.
A Quest for Understanding
The changes in the EDM scene spurred Conner to pursue academic inquiry. In his own field, the concept of the culture industry had not been rigorously tested, inspiring him to empirically explore how these cultural dynamics manifest.
“My work is an empirical examination or test of their concepts,” Conner remarked. This approach allows him to weave sociological theory with lived experiences, enriching both academia and the broader EDM discourse.
Looking Ahead: Future Collaborations
Despite his critical stance on mainstream festivals, Conner remains passionate about discovering the nuances of EDM. This summer, he plans to engage with underground artists and promoters, investigating the effects of live streaming on the EDM space. This upcoming project will be a collaboration with Danielle Hidalgo, a fellow researcher in subculture studies.
As he continues his journey through the evolving landscape of EDM, Conner underscores the genre’s significance beyond mere entertainment. “It may seem trivial to some,” he notes, “but EDM was our resistance movement so to speak. We did things for a good cause; it was so much more than just music.”
Through his research and passion for the genre, Conner illuminates the profound connections between culture, community, and resistance within the ever-evolving EDM landscape.
