Mind over Matter

Abstract

This article examines the work of recent Frenchrock artists, male and female, and their problematic relation to representations of the body and gender. Intent on articulating an ‘alternative’ identity to the commodification of the body dominant in ‘mainstream’ pop music, French rock artists principally posit a ‘protest body’ by emphasising ordinariness, privileging group performance and attempting to neutralise their gender identities. The ‘under-performance’ of their personal corporeality is, however, contradictory since these artists, as representatives of the music industry, constantly appear on stage, in the media and on record covers. The construction of an ‘authentic’ visual identity is thus meaningful as a series of ideological statements, but reinforces the patriarchal mind/body polarisation, re-asserting the male prestige of ‘protest’ over physicality and making for some dull performances. This analysis is underpinned by theories of stardom in film and popular music studies, while evidence is drawn from concerts, videos, photographs and interviews.