Lesson 2

• • What are the two main types of music videos? 

Narrative and Performance

• • What generic conventions do both music video styles share? 

Lip-syncs / perfomance to camera, use of camerwork to emphasies particular emotions, use of impressive locations and mise-en-scene etc.  

• • Why do hybrid music videos exist?

To make an artist's product more unique and visually interesting, to appeal to a wider audience, and convey complex emotions and ideas.

• Whose theory could we link to when discussing the hybridisation of music videos?

Neale's genre theory. 

• Bailey Rae was named the number-one predicted breakthrough act of 2006 in an annual BBC poll of music critics.

• Her genre is contemporary soul music. 

• In 2006 she was this rising star, full of promise and excitement. At this time she released ‘Put Your Records On’.

• In 2008, her husband died of an accidental overdose of methadone and alcohol. It was totally unexpected, and it took her a long time to emerge from the grieving process. 

• She channelled her emotion into her music, and much of her work has been influenced by this experience. 

• As a young female, she sang in church choir, and growing up a black female, she felt a little marginalised. 

• Stop Where You Are was released in 2016 as a single from the album ‘The Heart Speaks in Whispers’.

• 1. What do you think is the main message of the music video?

This music video showcases the diversity of modern Britain and celebrates multiculturalism, female empowerment, and hope. It serves as an allegory of the challenges and issues faced in contemporary society while calling for unity, compassion, and tolerance to overcome them.

• 2. What are the connotations of the song title? 'Stop Where You Are'?

The connotations of the song title, "Stop Where You Are," suggest the idea of being present and pausing to appreciate one's surroundings. It could also imply a sense of reflection or a moment of clarity in one's life.

• 3. Who do you think the audience are? 

It might appeal to a younger demographic who are interested in the Indie-pop genre. 

• 4. Why do you think the target audience could be attracted to the representations?

The target audience may be attracted to the representations of carefree happiness and the sense of community that is depicted in the video.

• 5. What contextual issues of society does this address?

The music video addresses contextual issues in society such as the increasing importance of self-care, the need to slow down and enjoy the present moment, and the value of community and relationships in promoting well-being.

• The ray of light on CBR’s face could symbolise her goddess-like power to change people’s attitudes. CBR is represented straightaway as a person who has fought through alot and this links to the context of her losing her husband. She is represented as a strong female, particularly as one from an ethinic background.

• CBRs iconic red dress is a symbol for guidance and pathway. It also connotes her strength and passion. The vividy of the red is directly contrasting against the muted colour palette so this again links to the idea that she is ‘free’ and powerful. 

• CBRs representation of a goddess-like figure; powerful and angelic. 

• Her legs are a symbol for women empowerment - one of the first societal comments CBR makes through the close-up shot on her legs.

• The common ‘ray of light’ is a symbol of hope. She is represented as a catalyst of positive change.