DUMBO
12-22-2007, 11:51 AM
common sense suggests that the purpose of a fan site is to disseminate information, create a social space for discussion, and allow fans to meet and share experiences and information.
but is there another higher purpose to the fan site, especially when the group in question fills a niche that over time becomes a tense subject of conservative fans who want the group to retain its traditional character, or more progressive fans who want the group to transform and innovate.
this has been the main issue on this site, and the main two 'camps' of differing opinion. considering that conservatives and progressives hope to see their desires realized in the work of their favourite group, is there an additional role of the fan site - to communicate its interests to the group and therefore attempt to affect the musical direction of the group?
if so, has WUTANGCORP.COM failed?
but is there another higher purpose to the fan site, especially when the group in question fills a niche that over time becomes a tense subject of conservative fans who want the group to retain its traditional character, or more progressive fans who want the group to transform and innovate.
this has been the main issue on this site, and the main two 'camps' of differing opinion. considering that conservatives and progressives hope to see their desires realized in the work of their favourite group, is there an additional role of the fan site - to communicate its interests to the group and therefore attempt to affect the musical direction of the group?
if so, has WUTANGCORP.COM failed?