I’ve noticed that these days, the word “rockstar” is thrown about pretty darn freely. There are social media rockstars, rockstar scientists, rockstar entrepreneurs, even rockstar baristas. Essentially, anybody who is popular and good at what they do is anointed the title of “rockstar” by consensus of others in their field. I encounter this in my world of geekery so much that it’s obvious that the true meaning of “rockstar” is completely lost.
This bothers me.
Why? Because I have friends who really are rockstars. Award-winning, touring, genuine rockstars. Who play music. In bands.
And now I don’t know what to call them.
Someone in my geek world asked me not long ago what I did the past weekend, so I said I was “hanging out with my rockstar friends.” They responded with, “Really, what do they do?” So I had to clarify, “They’re musicians. In bands. You know, rockstars. Literally.” The person I was speaking with seemed absolutely astounded that I could say “rockstar” and actually be meaning rockstar in its original context.
This entire situation seems so ironic, especially since the majority of the time I hear “rockstar” it’s referring to somebody who is good with computers or social media or something along those geeky lines.
I’m not suggesting that people change their lexicon and not use the term “rockstar” for people admired in their field. That would be impossible. What I would like, however, is another term to call my real, literally rockstar friends so as to clear up confusion.
So, what should we call real, genuine rockstars now? Nerds?
Photo of Dana Forrester by Michael Spleet.
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I’d like to know since when are nerds rockstars: [link to post] (new blog post)
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RT @damnredhead I’d like to know since when are nerds rockstars: [link to post] (new blog post)
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RT @damnredhead Will the real rockstars please stand up? | that damn redhead [link to post]
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Actually, there are several definitions of rock star | rockstar, many of which indicate “wicked awesomeness” and “fierce ability with musical instruments”. And apparently, there’s a drink of the same name that tastes like cat urine: http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=rock+star
I am well aware that the definition has evolved, which is kinda the point of my post. I just need a new term!
And I actually LIKE the cat-urine-flavored ROCKSTAR energy drink. I have a tendency to spill it, though, so I have to drink it out of a sippy cup. I made a video about that a while back, I’ll have to send you the link.
Thanks for stopping by!
May I confess that I personally loathe the curent use of rockstar, and while we’re at it “killer.” I find myself calling rockstars of the musical variety, rockers which does not speak to their awesomeness and is probably confused with the ancient thing you sit on but I am convinced that the inflection used when saying ROCKER tells the story…and none of this answers your question. Hmm, I say we reclaim rockstar and stop using it unless you can play an instrument or sing.
You’re allowed to also hate the current use of rockstar! I’m glad I’m not the only one!
Regarding “rocker,” I don’t care for it. Makes me think of old men sitting on porches doing nothing but rocking back and forth. Maybe the occasional “… eeeeeeeyup” uttered here and there.
My friend Dana (pictured) said, “well sometimes us ‘real’ rockstars call ourselves dorks, so maybe it all evens out.”
Hmm… I dunno about that.
I tweeted this recently: http://twitter.com/#!/jmitchem/status/43682982996885504
I like you.
Great post. One problem — what are we supposed to call really good geologists?!
Now THAT is a very good question!
Great blog Redhead! I love it, you are correct! Thanks for supporting the true musicians!