Loading ...On Fanboys
By Evan ~ June 20th, 2007. Filed under: indie, rant, world news.
CoolTechZone has an article on the psychology of Mac enthusiasts, and why they are overzealous with their love affair for all things Apple. Even though the subject matter this author chooses to explore (computer geeks) might bore you, I suggest you replace the technology words with musicology ones. For example, try substituting “Mac” with…oh, I don’t know, “Slint,” and “Linux” “OS X” and “AMD” with “Spiderland” “Tweez” and “Untitled EP”. You’ll get the hang of it after the first few paragraphs, and will find yourself giggling uncontrollably as you draw comparisons between technology fanboys and music fanboys.
With the substitution method, we get valuable insight into the minds of fanboys with statements such as, “For mainstream [listeners], [accessibility] is probably the main deciding factor, and they are only interested in a[n] [album] that [they don't have to think about]. That’s it. No frills or whistles. As long as the [record] does what they wish for it to do…they have no problem with it whatsoever.” Ah yes, it all makes perfect sense now! Fanboys are sticklers for details that everyone else doesn’t care about, like folklore surrounding recording sessions, comparisons between an album and the music landscape at the time of its release, and the simple fact that the record is often overlooked by the mainstream. They also lack an important brain wave that reminds them there is no right way of thinking, and indifference or negative reaction towards something you enjoy is not a personal attack.
The author continues by stating, “In addition to cheering for the little guy, fanboys also think it’s their responsibility to spread the word about their favorite [band]. Combine their need to do marketing on behalf of their adopted companies and their products with the passion to make others see things their way, and you have a powerful group of people.” I guess this explains the kids who have no problem shelling out $40 for a Slint hoodie, or talking about Spiderland ad infinitum. We all heard Pajo’s harmonics trick on “Nosferatu Man,” and also thought it was inventive. Whereas that’s the first time I think I’ve ever actually verbalized that sentiment, a fanboy would make sure to bring it up whenever possible…like when he’s on a first date, or when he’s making a mix tape (complete with liner notes) for his sweetie, or when he’s writing her from his jail cell after he’s brought up on charges for stalking her.
Perhaps the most poignant statement is, “Many times they are right, but they just choose to express their liking of a select [band] in a rather abusive manner that turns off a lot of people…[they] may be doing more harm than good.” Listen, I’ve been there before. In middle school I was a Smashing Pumpkins fanboy. When I first heard Spiderland, I felt the urge to convert all my friends into Slint fans. These days, I recall both periods as embarrassing times in my life I wish to forget. All the people like myself who rallied for a Slint reunion in order to catch a glimpse of bygone days we never experienced were rewarded with an opportunity to see the band totally destroy everything for which they supposedly once stood.
As is evident in the article, instances of fanboyism extend far beyond singular bands as well as the music industry — and rightfully so. It’s good to be fervent about something (be it a cultural trend, product, or life choice). It proves we’re not zombies. It’s even greater if our appreciation is kept in perspective. Luckily I’ve learned from my past mistakes and today consider myself a recovering fanboy. Also, I’m older and much more jaded about the whole thing (by which I mean life). I think that helps a lot.
Hopefully today’s miniature intervention will help you and I lead more fulfilling lives, free from the shackles of obsession. Just remember: all opinions are equal, and everything has its merits.
