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Music is often seen as a universal language that surpasses national borders. While music undoubtedly connects people around the world, music and musicians are rarely free from the implications attached to their country of origin. In his research, Okko draws attention to how Russophone rock, which has enjoyed very modest commercial success in the West, has received a significant amount of coverage in the US media. Taking into account a wide range of media material, the study examines the journalistic frames through which the topic has been discussed and the elements that have affected the media framing of the theme.

The Concept of the Imaginary East Frames the Reception of Music and Musicians

According to the study, the reception of music and musicians has been significantly influenced by stereotypes and politicized expectations of Soviets and Russians. The study suggests that Americans often see the Soviet Union and its successor states through the concept of the imaginary East. From the US point of view, life in the East is often seen as a constant battle between oppressive elites and dissidents sympathetic towards the West. The hope is that one day, the East will become a democratic entity like the West.

According to Okko, in the US media, rock musicians have been analyzed through this interpretative framework. Rockers have been framed as anti-state rebels who symbolize a change toward democracy and freedom. In reality, musicians’ relationship with politics is much more complex, and ultimately, the media has ended up presenting a very narrow view of the political significance of rock culture in the region. At the same time, the music itself has often gone unnoticed.

"Looking at the reception of rock music helps to understand the wider social debate, where Russian culture is often discussed through political frames. In terms of political issues, public debate often focuses on themes that reflect Western hopes and expectations of Russia rather than reality. This concept of an imaginary East can be used in the future to study popular culture and as a tool for examining the wider political debate," says Okko.  

FM Antti Okko defends their doctoral dissertation in General history "Not only rock 'n' roll: the reception of Russophone rock in the United States, 1985–2025" on 7 June at 12 in the old assembly hall of the Seminarium building at the Ä¢¹½Ö±²¥. The opponent is lecturer, PhD Marco Biasioli (University of Manchester) and custos Professor Pertti Ahonen. The event is held in English. 

Link to the dissertation: