U2: The Hype and the Feedback – Call for Papers

An academic conference exploring the music, work and influence of U2 is scheduled for May 13-15 in New York City. The keynote speaker for the conference is Anthony DeCurtis

CALL FOR PAPERS:


U2: The Hype and The Feedback is the first conference to examine U2’s considerable catalog of music as well as their influence in the areas of the music and entertainment industry, popular culture, humanitarian relief and the global politics of peace and social
justice. We invite proposals for papers, presentations or panels on any topic relating to the music, work or influence of U2 that would appeal to an audience of scholars, students, journalists, musicians and intellectually curious U2 fans. Some suggested areas for exploring, critiquing or seeking a better understanding of U2 are:

Lyrical/textual studies The business of rock ’n’ roll
Music composition Music and cultural engagement
The performance of rock ’n’ roll The Spirit in/of rock ’n’ roll
Artist, audience and fan dynamics Peace efforts and social justice
Art and the rock aesthetic The rock star activist
Artistic collaboration The multi-genre modern rock star
Technology in the studio/on the stage Notions of celebrity and fame

We encourage proposals from established or independent scholars; faculty, graduate or undergraduate students; journalists, critics, musicians and fans. Please submit 300-350 word abstracts for papers, presentations or panels. Individual presentations should last 15-20 minutes, with panels designed to last one hour. Submissions should include a cover letter with relevant contact information and a vita or resume for each presenter.


Proposals, with any attachments, should be e-mailed to proposals@U2conference.com by November 1, 2008. Please direct questions about proposals to this same address.