The Semiotics of Queerness in Music

This course explores the intersection of popular
and dance music with queerness, examining how the
meanings of queer identities are conveyed through
music and music videos. Over the past 40 years,
popular and dance music have been shaped by and
have shaped queer culture. Through the analysis of
diverse musical styles, this course will focus on
how music has been used to express and negotiate
queer identities and experiences.

The course will begin by introducing students to
the concept of semiotics, the study of signs and
symbols and how they are used to communicate
meaning. Students will then explore how musical
elements such as lyrics, melody, rhythm, harmony,
instrumentation, and production techniques are
used to convey meaning and, more specifically,
queer interpretations of meaning. The course will
also examine how music videos, fashion, and
performance are used to express and perform
queerness in popular and dance music.

Through listening, discussion, and analysis,
students will explore a variety of popular and
dance music genres, including disco, new wave,
punk, hip hop, R&B, house, techno, pop, and more.
The course will highlight key artists who have
used their music and performance to challenge
heteronormative assumptions and to celebrate queer
identities, including Sylvester, Madonna, Prince,
Azaelia Banks, RuPaul, Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Janelle
Monáe, and others.

This course aims to deepen students' understanding
of the complex and diverse ways that popular and
dance music have been used to express and perform
queerness since the 1980s. Students will develop
critical listening, analysis, and writing skills,
as well as an appreciation for the rich history
and cultural significance of queer pop and dance
music.