‘Punks are not girls’: Exploring discrimination and empowerment through the experiences of punk and alt-rock musicians in Leeds

Abstract

Abstract The genres of punk and alternative rock are traditionally associated with male musicians – a trend that remains apparent in the current music industry. This article examines the relationship between gender and alternative music through the lenses of female musicians and their experiences within the Leeds, UK scene by exploring how female musicians experience discrimination, and the ways in which they overcome it. Twelve musicians were interviewed about their experiences in the Leeds scene, and an online content analysis was undertaken in order to provide an objective, unobtrusive perspective of the female experience in the industry. These methods led to the conclusion that this study’s participants experience discrimination in both direct and indirect ways: ranging from subtle patronization to blatant opposition to their presence in the music scene. It was also noted that many participants experienced feelings of discouragement or felt as though they were outsiders or novelties within the scene. Many participants, however, noted the ability for other musicians to provide feelings of encouragement and empowerment to them, including examples of formal groups in Leeds that promote female musicians and create senses of community for women to continue resisting gender discrimination in alternative music.