CfP: The 7th Inter-Asia Popular Music Studies (IAPMS) Conference Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 23-25 Juli, 2020

The 7th Inter-Asia Popular Music Studies (IAPMS) Conference Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
23-25 July, 2020

Organised by Inter-Asia Popular Music Studies Group (IAPMS Group)
Hosted by Sunway University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Abstract Submissions Deadline 15 December 2019

Theme: Asia’s Sonic (under)Currents and Currencies

The recent international popularity of Korean pop groups BTS and Blackpink placed Asia from passive recipients to active participants of otherwise US and UK dominated global pop music. However, the extent in which they represent and personify the rich undercurrent of popular music circulation in Asia remains debatable in Asia’s culturally diverse landscapes. While the digital platform and social media as well as travel have intensified the flows of popular music participation, it is probably premature to idealistically suggest the levelling of more enduring historical and cultural boundaries and borders. The post•global or post•digital condition needs discussion.

In this respect, the theme of this conference, “Sonic (under)Currents and Currencies” seeks to explore the responses of popular music as local, trans•local national and transnational formations and traditions to the disruptions and changes in the region’s changing techno•cultural landscape. Within such disruptions, the conference also explores the relevance and currencies of both assumptions and practices of popular music in the region. Examples range from genres and categories, cultural industries, politics and government, fandom and activism to name a few.

Since its first conference in 2008, the IAPMS has encouraged a diversity of scholarship at all levels about popular music studies in the context of Asia. The conference welcomes presentations from the academic community as well as practitioners, activists and policymakers. As the 7th conference will be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the organising committee hopes to see greater representation of topics and presenters from ASEAN countries.

Tentative Schedule

22nd July 2020 – Arrival to Kuala Lumpur 23rd July 2020  – Registration, opening, conference begins
24th July 2020  – Conference sessions, concert 25th July 2020  – Conference sessions, closing ceremony
26th July 2020  – Excursion

Local arrangements information will be provided in early 2020 and sent to all participants via email.

Please submit an abstract (200-300 words) and short bio (max. 100 words) by 15th December 2019 to iapmsconference@ gmail.com . For panels, please submit a general panel description of 200-300 words, along with three or four abstracts (200-300 words each) and biographies (max. 100 words each). Please use the form (download).

Notice of acceptance will be given by 1 February 2020

Registration Fee
Students:         RM100
Non Students:  RM200

Language English, Bahasa Melayu

English is the official language of this symposium, however, presenters may choose to deliver their papers in Bahasa Melayu with English language Powerpoint presentation. However, all abstracts are to be submitted in English for review and selection purposes.

More information here