Cultural hegemony

Definition

Cultural hegemony is a concept that refers to the domination of a culturally diverse society by a ruling class that manipulates the culture of that society, so that their imposed, ruling-class worldview becomes accepted as the cultural norm. This means that the values, beliefs, and practices of the dominant group are presented as universal truths, influencing societal norms and perceptions. In the context of popular music in the 1950s, cultural hegemony played a role in shaping the music industry and influencing what types of music were promoted and consumed.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In the 1950s, the music industry was largely controlled by major record labels that dictated which artists were successful, reflecting a clear example of cultural hegemony.
2. The rise of rock 'n' roll challenged existing social norms and cultural standards, yet it was still shaped by the dominant culture through commercialization.
3. Youth culture emerged as a significant force in the 1950s, but it was often co-opted by mainstream media to fit within the existing cultural hegemony.
4. Cultural hegemony in music also affected racial dynamics, as white artists were often promoted over their Black counterparts despite similar or superior talent.
5. The impact of cultural hegemony extended beyond music into fashion, language, and lifestyle choices of the 1950s youth, demonstrating how deeply embedded these dominant cultural narratives can become.

Review Questions

• How did cultural hegemony influence the music industry in the 1950s?
  • Cultural hegemony influenced the music industry in the 1950s by allowing major record labels to control which artists gained visibility and success. These labels prioritized certain genres and styles that aligned with mainstream tastes, marginalizing other forms of music. As a result, even revolutionary genres like rock 'n' roll had to navigate through established industry norms set by those in power.
• Discuss how cultural hegemony affected youth culture during the 1950s.
  • Cultural hegemony significantly impacted youth culture in the 1950s by shaping their identities through commercialized music, fashion, and media representations. While young people began to express themselves through new forms of music like rock 'n' roll, mainstream media often sanitized or altered these expressions to fit within acceptable boundaries. This led to a tension between authentic youth expression and the commercialized versions promoted by those in power.
• Evaluate the implications of cultural hegemony on racial dynamics in 1950s pop music.
  • The implications of cultural hegemony on racial dynamics in 1950s pop music were profound, as it highlighted issues of race and representation within the industry. While Black artists created many foundational styles and songs during this period, their contributions were often overshadowed by white artists who received more promotion and airplay. This dynamic not only reflected societal prejudices but also reinforced the idea that certain voices were more valuable than others within popular culture. The struggle for recognition by Black musicians illustrated how deeply ingrained cultural hegemony can perpetuate inequality even within artistic realms.

Related terms

Popular Culture: The set of ideas, practices, and phenomena that are prevalent and widely accepted within mainstream society, often shaped by media and commercial interests.

Mass Media: Various platforms and technologies used to disseminate information and entertainment to large audiences, significantly impacting cultural norms and preferences.

Subculture: A cultural group within a larger culture that has its own distinct values, norms, and behaviors, often in opposition to the mainstream.