Mick or Keith: blended identity of online rock fans

This paper discusses the “blended identity” of online rock fans to show thatthe standard dichotomy between anonymous and real life personas is an inadequatedescription of self-presentation in online communities. Using data from anethnographic, exploratory study of an online community and comparison groupsincluding interviews, an online questionnaire, fan discussion boards, and participant/observation, the research analyzes fan identity online and then offline. Rolling Stonesfans often adopt names that illustrate their allegiance to the band, along with avatars. Issues of gender and the technological change of software platform also affect types ofonline self-presentations and their construction. Fans engage in “role embracement”, merging their individual selves with the role of Stones fans, demonstrated by reactionsof friends and family. Connections between offline and online settings occur, withband affiliation of fans expressed through choice of apparel offline, and usernames