The Role of Gender and Race in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

• In Event: 545 - Section on Sociology of Culture Roundtable Session.
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 19. Production of Culture I

Abstract

This project explores the relationship between racial and gender inequality and those who are selected to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Halls of Fame. It will examine the effects of race and gender on different aspects of cultural legitimacy and the impact that these different forms of legitimacy have on cultural consecration. Cultural consecration plays a significant role in society in that it is a highly visible process in culture that separates individuals and achievements into those that are to be praised and remembered and those that are not. Cultural consecration allows cultural organizations establish the legitimacy of not only the actors within the field but also of the field itself. Therefore, by establishing the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame rock music is seen as a legitimate cultural field. On the other hand, social inequalities in cultural consecration reify cultural notions regarding the abilities and worth of women and racial minorities. Determining how inequalities in cultural consecration compare to the field as whole will offer insights into how the work of women and racial minorities is valued.

Author

• Sara Ashlee Bledsoe, Emory University