The Politics of Arab Pop: Arab Pop Music, Popular Culture, and Gender Norms in Lebanon

Abstract

On October 17, 2019, thousands of Lebanese flooded the streets to protest governmental corruption. Soon after, issues of gender inequality were added to the list of grievances and women began leading marches to oppose the socio-political and economic burdens faced by women. Rage quickly consumed the whole of Lebanon, including -perhaps surprisingly -many of the country's biggest pop music stars. They marched in the streets, sung nationalistic songs, and participated in the feminized re-writing of the national anthem. Using the case of pop music in Lebanon, this dissertation examines how forms of popular culture intersect with gender politics. More specifically, I argue that pop music is deeply connected to politics and that many pop music celebrities actively work to promote changes in (and awareness of) gender and sexuality norms in Lebanon. I also problematize cases where artists' actions actually reinforce and reproduce restrictive gender norms. In making these claims, however, I endeavour to remain mindful of the socio-political realities of the Lebanese context that work to impede efforts to promote and secure gender-based reforms. I am also attentive to my own heritage as a student researcher of Lebanese descent and reflect on how this 'insider' identity has come to shape my work. To guide my analysis, I rely on the insights of (feminist) intersectionality and highlight the need for nuanced understandings of power and agency. Given the seriousness of Lebanon's current political economic crisis, I also discuss how popular music celebrities have been eager participants in the 'Lebanese Revolution' since its outset. Finally, I discuss the COVID-19 pandemic and the Beirut Port explosion, arguing that some pop stars' social media posts work to reproduce harmful gendered discourses, while others worked to give voice to the feelings of frustrated Lebanese desperately seeking accountability from their government. This document may bear my name, but I owe its existence to all those who have believed in me... I would like to thank my PhD advisor, Dr. Mira Sucharov. I recall sending you an email in the Fall of 2012, inquiring if you would be interested in potentially supervising my research on Lebanon. The compassion and enthusiasm in your reply inspired me to begin studies at Carleton. Years later, as I think of all the support and opportunities you've given me, I am certain I made the right choice. This dissertation would not have come to life without your constant encouragement. You are truly a remarkable educator and I am so fortunate to call you a mentor and friend. Thank-you so much for everything, Mira.I also wish to thank my committee members, Dr. Gopika Solanki and Dr. Carolyn Ramzy. Thankyou both so much for your thoughtful feedback, patience, support, and kindness. I also wish to thank my external committee members, Dr. Azar Masoumi and Dr. Paul Kingston, for taking the time to read my work and offering incredibly helpful and thoughtful comments. Your insights have not only improved the quality of my work, ...