The X Factor and reality television: beyond good and evil. Issue 1 (13th December 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Graham, Stephen
• Editors: Perchard, Tom; Powers, Devon
• Is Part Of: Popular music. Volume 36:Issue 1(2017)
• Page Start: 6
• Page End: 20
• Publication Date: 2016-12-13
• Subjects: Popular music -- Periodicals; 780.4205
• DOI: 10.1017/S0261143016000635
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0261-1430

Abstract

Abstract: Despite huge popularity and lasting cultural impact, reality television shows such as The X Factor, a British music competition that started screening in 2004, are seen by many as a cultural nadir. However, in this article I argue that, while reading reality TV as an index of an increasingly superficial, market-based culture makes a great deal of sense, it doesn't tell the whole story. Using the particular music-based dramas of The X Factor as a case study, I explore ways in which this show and populist reality television in general might be seen to embody both the predicaments and potential pressure points of contemporary neoliberal culture.