Articles & Essays on Music
Table of Contents
The article "We Should Celebrate Taylor Swift. But Her Success Shouldn’t Crowd Out Others" advocates for recognizing Taylor Swift's achievements while also acknowledging the contributions of other artists in the music industry. It applauds Swift's talent, work ethic, and accomplishments but cautions against allowing her dominance to overshadow the work of lesser-known or marginalized artists. The author emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusivity in music, calling for a more balanced representation of artists across various genres and backgrounds. While celebrating Swift's success, the article encourages audiences to explore and support a wide range of musical talents, ensuring a richer and more vibrant cultural landscape.
The article "Follow This Music to Joy" by John McWhorter explores the transformative power of music, particularly its ability to bring joy and solace during difficult times. McWhorter delves into his own experiences with music, highlighting how certain songs have lifted his spirits and provided comfort during challenging moments. He emphasizes the universal appeal of music and its capacity to evoke emotions and memories across cultures and generations. Through anecdotes and reflections, McWhorter celebrates the beauty and resilience of the human spirit as expressed through music. He encourages readers to embrace the healing potential of music in their own lives, suggesting that by following the melodies that bring them joy, they can find solace and strength amidst adversity.
The article "The Self-Destruction of Ye" by Charles Blow delves into the controversial transformation of Kanye West, exploring the rapper's evolution from a celebrated artist to a polarizing figure. Blow examines West's erratic behavior, including his outspoken political views and erratic social media presence, which have alienated many fans and critics alike. The author discusses the implications of West's actions on his mental health, reputation, and legacy, suggesting that his behavior may stem from a deep-seated sense of insecurity and alienation. Blow reflects on the complexities of fame and the pressure to maintain relevance in the entertainment industry, arguing that West's self-destructive tendencies highlight the toll of unchecked ego and unchecked power. Through insightful analysis and personal reflections, Blow offers a nuanced perspective on West's downfall, urging readers to consider the broader implications of celebrity culture and mental health in society.
The article "We Can’t Work It Out: Why I Finally Broke Up With the Beatles" explores the author's personal journey of disillusionment with the iconic band. Initially enamored with their music and cultural significance, the author gradually became disenchanted with the Beatles, finding their later work repetitive and lacking the innovation that characterized their earlier albums. The article delves into specific songs and albums that contributed to the author's changing perspective, ultimately leading to their decision to "break up" with the Beatles as a fan. It reflects on the complexities of fandom and the evolution of musical tastes over time, highlighting how even revered artists can fall out of favor with certain listeners.
The article "Woodstock, a Utopia? Not for Every Generation" examines the contrasting perspectives on the legendary Woodstock music festival, held in 1969, and its significance across different generations. While some view Woodstock as a symbol of peace, love, and counterculture, others argue that it was marred by chaos, overcrowding, and logistical issues. The article delves into the differing opinions held by baby boomers who attended the original festival and younger generations who romanticize it from a distance. It highlights the complexities of nostalgia and the challenges of idealizing historical events. Overall, the article suggests that Woodstock's utopian image may not resonate with every generation, but its impact on music and culture remains undeniable.
The article "Yes, I will keep listening to Michael Jackson" discusses the ongoing debate surrounding whether fans should continue to support and listen to Michael Jackson's music despite allegations of sexual abuse against him. The author reflects on their personal connection to Jackson's music and argues that separating the art from the artist is essential. They acknowledge the allegations but emphasize that Jackson's music holds significant meaning and nostalgia for many listeners. The article explores the complexities of enjoying art created by controversial figures and concludes that each individual must make their own decision regarding whether to continue supporting Jackson's music.
The article "Hip Hop Planet" by James McBride explores the global influence and cultural significance of hip-hop music. McBride delves into his personal experiences with hip-hop and its impact on different communities around the world. He discusses how hip-hop has transcended its origins in the Bronx to become a global phenomenon, shaping the way people express themselves and interact with their surroundings. McBride highlights the diversity within hip-hop, showcasing its ability to reflect the experiences and struggles of marginalized communities while also celebrating resilience and creativity. Through vivid anecdotes and insightful analysis, McBride paints a compelling picture of hip-hop as a transformative force that bridges divides and inspires change. He challenges readers to recognize the power of hip-hop as more than just music, but as a cultural movement that continues to shape the world we live in.
Elly McCausland explores the crossover between literature and pop culture, using Taylor Swift as a prime example. McCausland discusses how Swift's songwriting prowess and storytelling abilities in her music have sparked interest in narrative themes that resonate deeply with audiences. Drawing parallels between Swift's lyricism and classic literary techniques, the author argues that popular music can serve as a gateway to literature, inspiring fans to explore novels, poetry, and other forms of storytelling. McCausland celebrates the democratization of literature through mediums like music, which reach wider and more diverse audiences. She suggests that rather than dismissing pop culture as superficial, we should recognize its potential to ignite a passion for literature and storytelling in unexpected ways. Through engaging analysis and examples, McCausland offers a fresh perspective on the intersection of music and literature in contemporary culture.
The article "From K-pop to Reggaeton, English Language Music No Longer Reigns Supreme" by Shain Shapiro explores the global shift away from English-language dominance in the music industry. Shapiro examines the rise of non-English music genres such as K-pop and reggaeton, which have gained immense popularity worldwide, challenging the traditional hegemony of English-language music. The author delves into the factors driving this trend, including globalization, digital streaming platforms, and the growing influence of diverse cultural voices. Shapiro celebrates the diversity and vibrancy of music from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds, emphasizing the role of technology in facilitating cross-cultural exchange and discovery. Through insightful analysis and examples, Shapiro underscores the evolving nature of the music industry and the increasing recognition of non-English language artists on the global stage.
"Op-Ed: Let’s Push Music Education in Schools, Not Just S.T.E.M." by Sarah Merlenbach advocates for the inclusion of music education in school curricula beyond the emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (S.T.E.M.). Merlenbach argues that while S.T.E.M. subjects are crucial, they should not overshadow the importance of music education, which offers unique benefits such as fostering creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. The op-ed contends that music education contributes to well-rounded student development and should be prioritized alongside S.T.E.M. disciplines in educational policies and funding allocations. Merlenbach calls for a broader recognition of the value of music education in nurturing holistic learning experiences for students.
The op-ed "Classical Music Has Value Despite Its 'Old-Fashioned' Reputation in Pop Culture," authored by Jethro R. Lee, challenges the perception of classical music as outdated or irrelevant in modern pop culture. The author argues that classical music holds enduring value and relevance, offering unique emotional depth, cultural richness, and artistic complexity that transcend temporal boundaries. Despite facing marginalization in mainstream media and entertainment, the op-ed contends that classical music remains a vital and vibrant art form that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.