Call for Papers: Grunge Included 2026

Inviting music writers, scholars, students, researchers, musicians, critics, and cultural commentators to submit abstracts for presentations​

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York St John University, York, UK | September 7, 2026
Deadline for Abstract Submissions: July 1,2026

"Come as You Are" and bring your ideas​

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The Grunge Included Conference 2026 invites music writers, scholars, students, researchers, musicians, critics and cultural commentators to submit abstracts for presentations exploring the multifaceted legacy of grunge music and culture. This multidisciplinary conference aims to examine the evolution, context and continuing impact of the grunge movement from its origins in the Pacific Northwest to its lingering influence in global music and culture today. We welcome contributions from a wide range of disciplines, including (but not limited to) musicology, music, ethnomusicology, sociology, fashion studies, history, political science, media studies, graphic design and cultural studies. Whether you're dissecting the distortion pedals of Mudhoney or tracing the lineage from Cobain to contemporary alt-pop, we want to hear Your voice.

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Suggested (but not limited to) Topics:

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• The Pacific Northwest Sound: Seattle’s cultural and geographic role in shaping grunge

• Grunge & Politics: Anti-establishment ideologies, Gen X cynicism, and counterculture

• Grunge Aesthetics: Fashion, visual art, album design, and the rejection of glamour

• Musicological Analyses: Song structure, guitar tones, vocal styles, lyrical themes

• Ethnomusicology of Grunge Scenes: Local scenes, DIY venues, and community practices

• Grunge vs. the Mainstream: Industry commodification and authenticity debates

• Post-2000s Echoes: Grunge’s influence on indie, emo revival, alternative rock, etc.

• Subgenres & Hybrids: Post-grunge, sludge, noise rock, and genre-blending acts

• Cultural Impact of Key Artists: Nirvana, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains,
  Hole, and others

• Grunge Across Borders: International responses and adaptations of the grunge ethos

• Grunge and Identity: Gender, race, and representation in the scene and beyond

• Present-Day Relevance: How grunge continues to shape contemporary sound
  and attitude

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Submission Guidelines:

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Select a 'Paper Submission' ticket on Eventbrite, then follow the steps below

to submit your paper. This ticket includes attendance to Grunge Included 2026.​​​

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• Abstracts: 250–300 words (Your presentation should be no longer than 15 min.)

• Include: Title, author name(s), institutional affiliation and a brief bio (100 words max)

• Formats Accepted: Individual papers or multimedia presentations

• Once applications open, submission e-mail and event link will be released.

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If you have any questions or issues, please contact grungeincluded@gmail.com

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Applications Open January 1, 2026

Deadline: July 1, 2026​​​​​​​

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Spectator only tickets

Tickets to attend the conference as a spectator only will be released on 1 July.

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We hope to see you there!

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Stay Connected:

Substack Newsletter: https://grungeincluded.substack.com

Website: www.grungeincluded.com

Hashtag: #GrungeIncluded2026​

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Grunge never died. It evolved. Let’s talk about it.