Pronunciation: [ɹˈɒkɪzəm] (IPA) 
The term "rockism" is a relatively new addition to the English language. It refers to an overly nostalgic and narrow view of rock music, and is often associated with an aversion to newer genres or artists. The spelling of "rockism" is quite straightforward - it is spelled just as it sounds, with the stress on the first syllable. In phonetic transcription, "rockism" would be written as /ˈrɒkɪzəm/ (BrE) or /ˈrɑkɪzəm/ (AmE).
Rockism is a term that emerged in the late 20th century and is primarily used within music criticism and cultural analysis. It refers to a set of beliefs or attitudes that prioritize rock music over other genres, often involving the idealization and glorification of the rock genre and its associated culture. At its core, rockism perpetuates a hierarchical and exclusive view, asserting that rock music is superior to other forms of popular music.
Central to the concept of rockism is the belief that there is a pure and authentic essence within rock music that sets it apart from other genres. It often involves devaluing or dismissing other musical styles such as pop, hip-hop, electronic music, or any form that deviates from the traditional rock sound. This leads to the marginalization of artists outside the rock genre, reinforcing a narrow definition of what constitutes "real music."
Furthermore, rockism tends to romanticize the past and its iconic figures, often resisting change and newer forms of musical expression. It promotes the notion that older forms of rock music were more pure, honest, and artistically significant, diminishing the contributions and innovations of contemporary artists. This ideology often overlooks diversity, inclusivity, and the evolving nature of music.
Critics argue that rockism perpetuates elitism and reinforces cultural, racial, and gender biases, as it is often associated with predominantly white, male-dominated circles within music. This term serves as a means to highlight the limitations and prejudices associated with rigid adherence to rock music, encouraging music enthusiasts to embrace a more inclusive and egalitarian approach to appreciating and celebrating all forms of music.
The term "rockism" has its roots in the word "rock" and was coined to describe a particular bias or preference for rock music over other genres. It emerged in the early 2000s and gained prominence as a critique of the perceived dominance and superiority of rock music in popular and critical discourse.
The exact origin of the term is unclear, but it is believed to have been popularized by music critic Kelefa Sanneh in a 2004 article for The New York Times titled "The Rap Against Rockism". The article criticized the prevailing view that rock music was somehow more authentic, serious, or important than other forms of popular music, particularly hip-hop and electronic music.
The term "rockism" serves as a way to describe the bias or tendency to see rock music as the pinnacle of musical artistry, while devaluing or dismissing other genres as less significant or worthy.
