Dylan Stasiak Source 1

Question: How does the genre of electronic dance music (EDM) relate to rave culture at music festivals?

Anderson, Tammy L. "Understanding the Alteration and Decline of a Music Scene: Observations from Rave Culture." (n.d.): n. pag. Sociological Forum. Blackwell Publishing, 9 June 2009. Web. 2 Mar. 2015.

This article mostly talks about the current trends in rave culture throughout the United States. The rave, or electronic dance music (EDM), subculture encourages individuality for adolescents transitioning into adulthood. Ravers show off their individuality through fashion. Bright colors with accessories like glow-sticks or pacifiers were common. The subculture promotes this notion of “peace, love, unity, and respect” aka PLUR which seems to be the anthem for these ravers. Rave culture began in the US in the mid 1990s as a way for young people to express themselves through music and dance. Raves normally took place in big fields or abandoned warehouses with tents or room separating one DJ from another. The government started to interfere with these raves so DJs started having shows at venues, then promoters began to put together EDM music festivals which are the very popular in the United States. The heavy base and catchy beats have ravers dancing through the night. The most common trend is the use of club drugs. Ravers are taking these club drugs in order for the user to have a better experience.

I’ve been to music festivals, concert venues, and raves, and what I’ve noticed is that each one is completely different. My opinion before doing any research of rave culture, is that I think it’s cool that these people come together for their love of music. Regardless of their excessive use of drugs, everyone is incredibly nice and respectful. After I read this article, I learned more details about rave culture, where it came from, and how it’s changed. It also got me wondering about these club drugs and why they are so popular. For my initial question, rave culture is all about self expression through dance and drugs that help them do so. Now I need to look for an article that touches more on details of how club drugs make EDM more enjoyable.

This article led me to more questions in order to find the answer to my question. I am curious to find out what kind of drugs are being used. Also, how are people getting these club drugs? I’m also looking to figure out of the festival or rave promoters know about the drug use and how they feel about them.