Sheila Whiteley Books

Sexing the Groove discusses these issues and many more, bringing together leading music and cultural theorists to explore the relationships between popular music, gender and sexuality. The contributors, who include Mavis Beayton, Stella Bruzzi, Sara Cohen, Sean Cubitt, Keith Negus and Will Straw, debate how popular music performers, subcultures, fans and texts construct and deconstruct `masculine' and `feminine' identities. Using a wide range of case studies, from Mick Jagger to Riot Grrrls, they demonstrate that there is nothing `natural', permanent or immovable about the regime of sexual difference which governs society and culture. Sexing the Groove also includes a comprehensive annotated bibliography for further reading and research into gender and popular music.

The book delves into the evolving role of women in popular music, highlighting the impact of artists from Janis Joplin to P.J. Harvey. Through case studies, Sheila Whiteley investigates the intersection of feminist discourse and music culture over three decades. She critiques the counter-culture's attitudes towards women, analyzing the lyrics of iconic bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. Additionally, she addresses how figures like Joplin and Joni Mitchell challenged norms surrounding sexuality and freedom, while also reflecting on the personal sacrifices involved in their success.

Exploring the intricate dynamics of attraction and obsession, the story follows Josie and Ben as they bond over their love for symbolist art in Boston. As their relationship deepens, a series of cards, letters, and drawings unveil Ben's disturbing fantasies, with Josie becoming the muse for his increasingly twisted thoughts. The narrative delves into themes of warped sexuality and psychological manipulation, offering a chilling glimpse into the mind of a stalker through personal insights and visual elements.