The Final Chapter

Last blog.
I can't believe I made it. I have to admit, there were so many weeks where I just wanted to drop this class.
During the semester, I was promoted at work and my hours increased a significant amount. During April, I was working two jobs (around 45 hours a week). It always seemed like there was a lot of homework in my classes. Top all of it off with trying to maintain a home for two sweet, but very demanding little boys (2 years and a one year old). There were just days where I simply said, "Ugh! I just don't have the energy to do English homework right now!" -sigh-

Look at us all now, though. We made it to the end and it was worth it. When we first started the class, I was so confused and perplexed over how Blackboard operated. It was my first online class and I felt lost. I would post in the discussion forum asking questions because I just felt so stupid!

The group activities were a little hard. The assignments themselves were actually rather easy and somewhat entertaining, but the concept of "group" activity was difficult to handle. I'm a procrastinator; always have been and probably always will be (despite how many times you would think that I would have learned the lesson). I felt bad when my group had to wait on me to give my input. However, I would go to the group page the day before the assignment was due to give my input and find that no one else had been on there either! It was just a difficult process to have group discussions with a group that you have never met and do not personally see!

The essays and blogs were interesting. There were occasionally times when I was absolutely frustrated because I did not like the topic we were supposed to write about. I found myself stuck and unable to even start writing. I had no opinion on the matter and in my opinion, felt there was no need to have one. However, this class forced me to actually sit down and think about these alien topics and form an opinion. I learned that instead of saying, "Well, I don't really care about that particular topic", I should be saying "I haven't given it much thought before, but this is what I think..."

It was somewhat exciting to me when I realized that Music and Culture would be our main curriculum. I was anticipated a big ol' English book of my past classes. What a relief! It was also nice that we were not expected to read a ridiculous number of novels in a small amount of time! I barely have time to sit down and focus on a book these days! Another relief!

All in all, I'm proud of myself for climbing this mountain called English 101. Congrats to all of those who did the same!

Writing in English 101

In an English class, I naturally expected there to be quite a bit of writing involved. However, I NEVER expected to be creating a blogging page as an assignment! You know what, though? It was fun. I enjoyed it.

I feel as though there had been English classes in high school that I had been required to do substantially more writing than I felt my hand could endure, but those writings were mainly long research papers or analyzations of various classic novels and such.

This class expected a lot of insight and opinion from me. I enjoyed it. It challenged me to really think about how I felt regarding the various topics discussed. I am so used to classes where I am required to research or read about a topic and then regurgitate the information back. Honestly, in those types of classes, I regurgitate the info and then quickly forget it all. I pass the class and, yet, retain nothing.

I enjoyed the reading discussions that we had to post every week. This is something I was not used to. I'll admit that it was occasionally difficult to create a question to end each post with, but it was still interesting to see how other people would respond. I was forced to really create an opinion on certain topics that I otherwise might not have held a previous opinion. It challenged me to really think about it and then propose my opinions in a semi-professional manner (although they didn't necessarily always come out that way!).

Our group activities were also very interesting with the different comics to analyze, as well as the plagiarism exercise. These were all creative ways to show how we felt about these different items.

From the original blog to our research paper, I will say that some of the writings have definitely been a challenge, but all in all, I have enjoyed this class. It was a nice way for myself to be introduced to online courses!

Free Samples? WHERE?!

I love free samples, ESPECIALLY from Costco. I will go to Costco specifically to walk around and retrieve free samples. Lame, I know. Sometimes a mother will take ANY kind of free time she can get, though!

Anyways, this is not the sort of sampling that I am referring to in this blog.
Music sampling: Creative? Original?

I'm actually quite on the fence regarding this topic. Sometimes it is fun and entertaining to hear parts of songs make special appearances in other songs. I think it switches things up a bit. It gives the listener the, "Hey, I know that song!" feeling. However, I suppose it can also give the listener the "Um, this is NOT their song" feeling.

For example, Dead or Alive featured a song called "You Spin Me Right Round (Like a Record)" in 1985 on the album, Youthquake.
In 2009, Flo Rida came out with a song called "Right Round" featuring a sample from the aforementioned band's hit song.
Some listener's liked it. Some did not. I personally found Flo Rida's edition to be quite catchy. It is entertaining.

Another example would be Martika Toy's "Soldier" and Eminem's "Like Toy Soldiers". He cleverly incoorporated her last name into the title even.

If you go to popculturemadness.com/music/samples, you can see several different examples. I'm not incredibly familiar with most of them, but there are plenty there!

In a way, sampling is creative. It is taking different pieces of different puzzles and trying to create something unique, but still familiar.

On the other hand, it's still different pieces of different puzzles trying to be put together and it's creating something kind of ugly and disfunctional.

I am on the fence about it and can see where both points of view would have a fair argument. What do you think?

RESEARCH PAPER?!?! UGH!!!!

Ok. Let the venting begin!
Just the combination of the words "research" and "paper" is enough to irritate me and make me want to look the other way. I hate research papers, especially if they are on topics that really don't interest me. I'm going to be honest. I don't have any interest in this paper whatsoever. That is discouraging for me because I know that my lack of interest is going to come out in my work. The enthusiasm just won't be there. Therefore, I have already set in my mind that my grade will not be the best for this paper. It is a terrible mindset to have, but I am just not feeling it at all.

Out of all of the different topics, I think I have finally just decided to stick with a celebrity and endorsements. Ugh. I am not happy with that decision at all, but I was not thrilled about any of the other topics, either. I looked over each different topic and tried to evaluate how I could write a six page paper on any of them. Six pages is not even that long! It is relatively short for a research paper, but none of the topics stood out as "six page worthy"!

After much irritation, I believe I have settled on Shania Twain and her endorsements. How I am going to come up with a six page paper discussing this, I have yet to discover. I have researched several places and had enough trouble just trying to find five different sources to state in the Works Cited. There were plenty of people talking about the topic, but whether they were credible was a different story. What a pain! I honestly don't even know what to write about. I'm stressing and probably being quite dramatic about it, as always, but it's simply how I feel. I feel like I don't have enough information. I have five forced sources, but they don't all talk about her endorsements/advertisement deals. Am I supposed to talk about why I think they chose her in particular? Can I go into detail about her past and her life that would encourage or inspire her to want to sign with these companies? I don't even know. I haven't even begun to write the actual paper as of yet. I'm procrastinating, as is my nature when it comes to the things that I am reluctant to do.

I have other papers for other classes that I need to write as well as focus on my job and still have time with my two babies. There's no need to even mention that there are plenty of things I need to do around my house (laundry, cleaning, etc.). I'm working my butt off because I am the sole provider for myself and my two kids. This could be a huge factor to my negative outlook on this paper. I'm just overwhelmed with everything else and this could be the straw that breaks the camel's back. Very dramatic, I know, but I am exhausted. Terribly exhausted. I realize that I shouldn't be complaining because there will always be people who have it worse than me. At least I have the ability to go to school, right? I just need to suck it up and "git 'er done!"

*sigh* Well, I feel a little bit better now...But I still don't want to do the stinkin' paper!

Pirates of the Internet

Before this blog, I genuinely knew nothing about Internet piracy or how the process went about. Of course I knew it existed; I don't live under a rock, but I am still quite naive to the topic. My friend once tried to explain to me that there was a way to download music for free onto the computer. This was before I was even remotely interested in a music player/Ipod...thing. I now own a Zune (which does not seem to be incredibly popular, but it does its job by playing music), and I still would not know how to go about with the illegal reproduction of any music. My friend tried to show me and I don't remember how he explained it, but it did not sound like it was a good thing. Of course, it would appeal to most people. Free music? OF COURSE! I thought, "How does that benefit the artist or the company?" In reality, it doesn't benefit them, and yet at the same time, I think it really can (hear me out, I'll get to it).

According to wisegeek.com, "Internet piracy is the unlawful reproduction and/or distribution of any copyrighted digital file that can change hands over the Internet. This can be done with music files, videos and movies, e-books, software, and other materials."

While the piracy really is not fair to the artist, who put so much time, energy, and money into the production of their music, there is one positive result for the artist. Obviously, the consumer benefits the most due to free music, but the artist has a slight benefit, as well.

EXPOSURE.

There are so many lazy and naive people when it comes to choice of music. If they have to actually go to the store and search for it, sometimes it is just not worth it to them. When music is free, more people are willing to check out new genres and artists. This could easily lead to more fans who will be more motivated to go out and buy full CD's, if even needed, and attend concerts, etc. Also, more fans leads to more sponsorships by big name companies who will support the artist as they go on tour or make special appearances.

While I do not approve of or participate in internet piracy, I can definitely see where it can have some positive results. I do not see a method of stopping it becoming very effective, as there will always be intelligent computer savvy people to invent a new way of cheating the system. It is really up to the consumer. Either you respect the artist's energy and time, or your concern is only for yourself and saving money. It is a humanity issue. Almost always, people will naturally be concerned with themselves.

The Bachelor...and His Happily Never After

Did anyone watch this last season's The Bachelor? It was nothing spectacular. It always seems to be the same old thing. Sexy guy meets 25-30 "eligible" ladies and eventually has to pick and choose, weeding out the bad eggs, until he is left with the one woman he "wants to spend the rest of his life with". Blah blah blah...two months later...SPLIT.

What makes this show SO popular? I realize that the majority of this show's viewers are female, for a FEW obvious reasons. I have a confession...Ok, I have a couple confessions. #1: I enjoy the show. #2: I've had my share of Bachelor "crushes" (I mean, COME ON!! They pick some seriously sexy guys sometimes!) Is there more to this show that has been a huge hit since 2002. Is it Chris Harrison? It very well could be for some ladies!

While the show isn't nearly as popular as, let's say, American Idol, The Bachelor still averages nearly 10 million viewers in its audience. What is the big deal? Why the popularity? The answer: Women will be women. What do women thrive on? Gossip. Drama. Happily ever afters. But is it really happily ever after?

Season 1: Alex Michel and Amanda Marsh broke up several months later.
Season 2: Aaron Buerge and Helene Eksterowicz broke up several months later.
Season 3: Andrew Firestone and Jen Schefft broke up several months later.
Season 4: Bob Guiney and Estella Gardinier broke up shortly after the show aired.
Season 5: Jesse Palmer and Jessica Bowlin broke up several months later.
Season 6: Byron Velvick and Mary Delgado split after five years.
Season 7: Charlie O'Connell and Sarah Brice broke up, got back together, and broke up again.
Season 8: Travis Stork and Sarah Stone broke up shortly after the show aired.
Season 9: Prince Borghese and Jennifer Wilson broke up a couple months later.
Season 10: Andrew Baldwin and Tessa Horst called off their engagement and broke up.
Season 11: Brad Womack chose none of the girls to be with.
Season 12: Matt Grant and Shayne Lamas broke up a couple months later.
Season 13: Jason Mesnick and Melissa Rycroft broke up and Jason went after the other girl he sent home, Molly Melaney and they actually got married!!
Season 14: Jake Pavelka and Vienna Girardi broke up a couple months later.
Season 15: Brad Womack (AGAIN) and Emily Maynard are still together...but let's face it, it's only been a couple of months.

Do you see a familiar pattern? With the exception of Seasons 13 and 15, I would say that this so-called match-making show does not have a great track record. However, who really cares? For the most part, the audience doesn't care about what happens afterwards. We care about the drama and love story to get to the proposal; then it's on to the next season. My prediction is that this show won't last for too much longer. It's always the same old story. Eventually, it will die out, just like all..er..,I'm sorry..MOST.. of the "relationships" it has sparked.

The Origin of Country Music

I guess I've never really thought about where the different music genres came from. For example, if you asked me where country music started, I'd probably say that someone around Nashville or Oklahoma or somewhere that has a Southern accent picked up an acoustic guitar one day and just started playing country music. It started out in the countryside? I suppose I just picture plains and fields of tall grasses swaying in the wind with the banjo playing. That is my version of the origin of country music.

Don't worry. I am aware of how naiive my version is.

Country music was, in fact, founded in the Southern United States around the 1920's. Hillbillies do exist. In the 1940's, this was the movement in country music. It's the kind of picture painted by banjos and guitars on an old wooden front porch with a glass of iced tea.

I feel as though we might only picture country music as being something that is a form of Western entertainment, but other places have their own versions of country music. The United Kingdom and Ireland have their own versions of country music, as well as Australia. Go youtube their versions of country music; it's not the same "My dog died, my woman left me, etc" story, but it's still country music.

After doing a tiny bit of research, I was so shocked to learn that Elvis Presley was known as "the Hillbilly Cat" and a top selling solo artist for country music. WHAT?? He defined rock and roll! It never occurred to me that this is where he began. He could definitely be considered as a crossover artist.

While many of my peers hate country, it is obviously a very popular genre. Statistics show that "while album sales of most musical genres have declined since about 2005, country music experienced one of its best years in 2006, when, during the first six months, U.S. sales of country albums increased by 17.7 percent to 36 million. Moreover, country music listening nationwide has remained steady for almost a decade, reaching 77.3 million adults every week" (Wikipedia).

It's really no wonder why 2006 was such a huge year for country music. George Strait's "She Let Herself Go" gave him his 40th Number One spot on the Billboard chart. Keith Urban got married to Nicole Kidman. Johnny Cash released "American V" which would obviously be a huge hit! The Dixie Chicks' lead singer made those comments regarding President Bush while they were over in England. Carrie Underwood's song writers were awarded a Grammy in 2006. On top of all of this, there was SO much more going on in the country world to gain publicity. Of course 2006 was going to be a good year for this genre!

While this particular genre is always going to get the “This is boring” or “This is just hick music” comments, it will remain a very popular genre. There are enough listeners who appreciate this style of music to help keep its popularity. Although I love this style of music, from Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash to Shania Twain and Taylor Swift and everything in between, I am aware that I am one of very few amongst my peers. That is ok with me, though. To each his own.

"The Real Slim Shady"

Marshall Bruce Mathers III is brilliant. I don't care who you are or what kind of music you like or don't like, but Eminem deserves recognition. Eminem is brilliant. He is talented. He is devoted. An artist doesn't win 13 Grammy Awards, rank in the list of best-selling artists in America (or anywhere, for that matter), get voted "The Best Rapper Alive", or earn a place in the list of best-selling singles worldwide by being mediocre and fluffy. By the word "fluffy", I mean sugar-coated and unrealistic.

Eminem is one of the most realistic artists you will encounter. His lyrics are genuine and down to earth. Teenagers can feel the rebellion in his work and they can relate to it. This is why he is noted for "keeping it real". He reaches out with an attitude that his listeners can identify with. For some, this reality and genuine spirit is key to their taste in music.

As for myself, I respect the reality. Although it can be depressing and somewhat graphic at times, it is in turn quite ironically refreshing. I have used Eminem in my previous writings as an example and I thoroughly enjoy listening to his work. However, there are times when lyrics need to be somewhat unrealistic. Sometimes I listen to music purely for the purpose of ESCAPING reality. Listening to the troubles and heartache of it are not always my definition of escape. Often enough, I enjoy listening to lyrics that are full of fantasy and unrealistic love stories. It gets my mind wandering to a pretty peaceful place and there are times when that is exactly what I need. Of course, it's still a huge slap in the face when those fantasies are demolished and I return to the real world, but it has it's place and that place is still wonderful.

For those who always need to listen to reality, I applaud you. It can be a tough listen. When you crave to hear lyrics about the truth constantly, you must have some sort of strength. The truth and reality are not always pretty. I enjoy it. I do. Like I said before, it can be somewhat refreshing. However, I could not handle it every time I wanted to listen to music. Sometimes listening to a sappy Taylor Swift love song is what I need to hear. While her lyrics can sometimes seem very unrealistic (although she claims that most of them are written from experiences), they provide this cute little fantasy world to escape into on occasion. It is quite lovely.

Enjoy the reality, but it's ok to escape every now and then.

The Cultural Dance Floor

When was the last time you were out on a dance floor? For some of you, maybe it has been quite awhile; for others, maybe last night?
Do you remember how you felt? What you saw? Who you saw? What kinds of people were out there dancing? What did you notice? What did you not notice and maybe later wished that you had?

My first time out on a dance floor (outside of my chaperoned school dances, of course) was an experience. I only knew a handful of people and they were going crazy dancing. As I looked around the dimly-lit room, it occurred to me that everyone else probably only knew a handful of people, too. It didn't matter, though. As soon as the music started, the beat had everyone dancing together. It was exactly as Beatrice Aaronson describes it in Music and Culture: "Everybody shares the dance floor, dancing, touching and sweating with somebody they might not otherwise speak to" (108). The dance floor is that exact scene.

Over several experiences, I've come to realize that the dance floor can sometimes be the most intimidating place and, at the same time, be a very welcoming place. Of course, there will always be those who are nervous and self-conscious of their moves (I would know; that used to be me) and there will always be the rude people who think they are better than everyone else and give dirty looks (they should be ignored). However, if you are out there dancing with everyone else, you are generally accepted.

Dancing automatically makes you part of the crowd. It doesn't matter where you've come from, what color your skin is, or what language you speak. Dancing and wanting to move your body is universal. Everyone can do it and everyone wants to, whether they will admit it or not. Aaronson makes a good point when she says,

"We find the energy that transcends social and cultural classifications. We have a body and we are a body. We are human and animal. Too much intellectualism kills our intuitive being and dries up our emotive resources. That is why the dance floor is so important in our society to recapture, if only temporarily, the instinctual forces of our existence, the only forces that can reconnect us to earth. A society that does not recognize the therapeutic value of public dance floors and abstract dance threatens its own mental and physical health" (109-110)..."I believe that rhythm and dance are the non-verbal form of communication par excellence" (111).

In dancing, we speak with our bodies. For that brief moment, it doesn't matter what language you speak; you communicate through the way you move. It does not make a difference who you are; just go dance.

Artists, Please Apologize for Being Artists. Thank You.

Can you imagine if an artist like Marilyn Manson or Eminem came on the news for everyone to see and just apologized for any offensive lyric they had ever written. Imagine if they sat there, in front of the camera, with millions watching, and they just started listing off the different lyrics they were apologizing for. Not only would the news broadcast be VERY long, but it would be ridiculous. What are they apologizing for? Being talented? Being creative? They aren't hurting anybody, so what is with the apology? It would just be silly.

Does a writer have a moral responsibility? No. Does creativity have specific guidelines? It shouldn’t. What would Picasso have done if he was told that his paintings could only be of a natural portrait style rather than any abstract art? The expression of art would be extinguished and art would lose its meaning.

What would a moral responsibility entail? Singing only about positive and happy topics? Things that build the listener up? Enforcing peace and love throughout their lyrics? Keeping everything G-rated?

What an awful thing it would be to be an artist! Who wants to sing about happiness and ponies and butterflies all the time? That’s not expression. That’s denial; denial of the world we live in. Obviously life is not about being happy all of the time. It is the sad and trying moments that show us what true happiness is all about. This concept reminds me of the book by Ray Bradbury, Fahrenheit 451. In this odd little world, everyone is taught to think in a positive and all around happy way all of the time. Intellect and emotion are not encouraged.

If an artist had a moral responsibility, would there be less corruption? Less teen suicide, or teen sex? Less lives completely devoured by sex, alcohol, and drugs? It is possible that youth may have better examples set for them in the celebrity spotlight, however, the responsibility lies in the hands of others. *Drumroll please!* THE PARENTS!!!

I feel as though I will probably be sounding redundant now, as my last blog was focused on the responsibility of the parents regarding what kind of music is heard in the home. However, seeing as it is something that I feel is important, I will not be shy. :) What are the parents doing nowadays? They are blaming music companies for allowing their artists for being so raunchy and graphic. When in reality, it's a freedom that artists are allowed to have. This goes back to the record companies properly labeling the music and the parents being properly aware of what kind of music is present in the home. Artists like Eminem or Marilyn Manson would not be artists; at least, they would not be well-known artists. There is just so much talent that would be stifled because sensitive people would be offended. If they cannot handle it or they don't like it, there is a simple solution: Don't listen to it.

'Parental Advisory' Only Works for the Attentive Parent

As a mother, I have concerns about the music my sons will listen to in the future. I realize I may be getting ahead of myself since my oldest son is only 2 1/2 years and my youngest turns 1 this upcoming Wednesday; I highly doubt that 'Old McDonald' and 'Twinkle Twinkle' pose a threat to their development into sweet boys. However, there will come a day, quite a few years down the road, when my sons will ask me to purchase music for them. Now, it's very possible that it may be an artist that I've never heard of at that time. (I would hope that I'm still somewhat aware of the artists being favored by youth since I will be in my early 30's when my oldest son enters high school; but nonetheless, I'm sure my music interests will differ). In the event that I purchase music for either one of my boys and had no idea who the artist was, I would be absolutely appalled if I walked by his bedroom door and heard nothing but profanity or obscene comments blaring from his Ipod (or whatever new little musical device he will have). I would be embarrassed and quite upset with myself for making such a purchase. I wouldn't put the blame on the record company for not having a 'Parental Advisory' label, even though it sure would be nice of them, but I would be upset with myself for not having done a little research into what kind of music my son was curious about listening to. (This is all hypothetical, of course, as my sweet, sweet well-mannered boys would never ask for their mother to purchase such a crude CD. Knock-on-wood.)

Thank goodness for advisory labels. Of course certain things will pass through undetected, but for the most part, the record companies are doing their part. It is not their fault if these albums are getting into the wrong hands. I have never purchased a CD with a 'Parental Advisory' and had to worry about how old I was, but do the stores enforce a certain age requirement to purchase these Cd's? If not, I feel like maybe that would be a start to the solution to very young children listening to very mature content. Although, it definitely is not the store's fault, either. The biggest solution would be for parents to pay attention to what their kids are getting involved in. I understand that there are certain kids (primarily in the adolescent department) that are beyond the point of rebellious and there's really no controlling what they listen to (although I believe that stems from issues earlier in their lives regarding the parents, but ANYWAYS); there is no excuse for letting young children listen to music relating to sex and drugs freely, unless that is the sort of mentality and lifestyle the parent intends on the child to welcome (in which case, this particular individual should not be a parent and should be neutered/spayed immediately). 'Parental Advisory' labels are only effective as long as the parents who are being advised are being attentive to what their children are listening to.

"Good Girl Gone Bad" (Rihanna)

When I was in middle school, I remember many of my friends branching out into different music genres. Rather than the calm and reserved religious artists we had grown up with, my friends began pursuing the sort of artists who favored screaming or "roaring" mid-song. Their lyrics were often violent or blunt compared to, let's say, the soothing lines of Casting Crowns or Jars of Clay. These lyrics contained problematic relationships, cheating, sex, drugs, alcohol, murder, etc. Their interests also wandered to artists like 50 Cent, where going to the "Candy Shop" had nothing to do with getting Skittles or a Snickers bar.

My "boyfriend" at the time (it wasn't much of a relationship due to such an age difference) was in high school and introduced me to the bands KORN and Slipknot. Keep in mind that I attended a private school for my entire life and came from a religious home. Just imagine my surprise when the "F word" was thrown around so casually. Before listening to these artists, I had maybe heard the word no more than five times. (I'm sure the word "sheltered" is now coming to your mind.) Jeremy Camp or Relient K would never sing lyrics like those! In attempt to grasp my boyfriends approval, I drowned myself in his music. As a result, my vocabulary grew; this was not a positive growth, I assure you. My language became vulgar for a young girl in middle school and it was mainly due to this new music I was indulging myself in. My attitude towards life became darker and I dressed like I thought I could take on the world. I cut off my hair and would use gel to "spike" it in the back. I wore primarily red and black and would accessorize with silver studded belts and bracelets, etc. (Please keep in mind that I'm not degrading anyone who dresses this way, because I actually do like this style; this was just not the way that I had been raised to dress or present myself).

Music can have a huge impact on an individual's lifestyle and behavior. I'm not saying that music can't have a good impact on someone; however, I'm simply going to focus on a few of the negatives for now. Simply listening to those two bands took me from a sweet little girl to using words from a sailor's vocabulary and thinking that I didn't need anything or anybody. If a young person constantly listens to music promoting sleeping around and how much fun it is, that lifestyle will be appealing to them and they will most likely pursue it. If "Toot It and Boot It" (YG) is such a popular hit, wouldn't acting it out be just as much fun? People, youth especially, will listen to a song and feel as though it can relate to them somehow; if they like a song enough they may make the attempt to reverse it and relate to it, instead. If they are exposed to something enough, that something will become a part of them. Whether it is language, sex, drugs, or alcohol, a song can make anything sound appealing to the impressionable and vulnerable. If a "Good Girl Gone Bad" (Rihanna) mentality is engraved into a young girl's mind as being sexy and desirable, it is no wonder when she begins to dress like a prostitute at the age of thirteen. While youth should be free to listen to good music, it is a parent's responsibility to teach them about the difference between just listening and applying.

Paint Runs Through Her Veins (Unleaded Paint, Of Course)

How can youth be considered as passionate about music and music alone? For Allan Bloom, author of The Closing of the American Mind, to state "(Music) is their passion; nothing else excites them as it does; they cannot take seriously anything alien to music" (Music and Culture, page 36), a major overgeneralization is made. Is this implying that he was passionate solely about music in his youth?

I have quite a few friends who would admit to finding refuge in a variety of activities, from sports to arts. I have friends who will read a book while bathing (something I have never been able to master), sketch constantly on every blank space of paper, and eat, sleep, and breathe soccer. I recall one friend telling me, "I am obsessed with painting and I think I will probably die at an easel." I am convinced that paint runs through her veins (unleaded paint, of course). It seems as though these different hobbies can sometimes swallow lives; they are obviously valued more than music.

I realize that for most of today's youth, or even older generations, music holds a personal and emotional place in lives. Music alone can stir up feelings that are otherwise involuntary in the average activity. A simple song, or even a short lyric, may aid in the recollection of various memories, whether happy or tragic; this power, however, does not ordain music as youth's sole passion.

There can definitely be a link between music and an individual's passion, though. The soccer enthusiast will often tell me that certain songs can pump her up during a practice or amp up her energy before a game. While music can motivate her, her focus and passion is still buried in the sport. My paint-blooded friend will occasionally paint to a particular artist or style of music that coordinates with her current mood. For her, music can often serve as an inspiration, but, by no means, is it her passion. Holding those brushes, displaying those colors, and observing the artwork of others is where her passion bubbles over. Music could be absent from her art completely and she would still find refuge in the canvas.

I would like to consider myself included in the category of "youth", so I suppose it is important to share my passion if it differs from music. While I am not necessarily "passionate" about music, it is still a substantial part of my life. I surround myself with music and definitely will find refuge in it. I sing on a daily basis. I listen to music on a daily basis. I write songs when they come to mind. I enjoy playing the few chords that I know on an acoustic guitar or picking up my violin and just letting my fingers and bow take over. I view these things as different than a passion. I am not necessarily good at any of these pertaining to music, therefore I do not categorize them as my passions; they are simply releases.


My passion is parenting and I love my sons with everything I have to offer. My energy goes into playing with them and providing for them. Granted, I need my fair share of "Mommy Time", but nothing makes me happier than spending time with my two little boys. I work a lot and enjoy it because I know that it is giving me the means to provide for them. My heart and soul goes into my passion, as should anyone's heart and soul be drowned in their passion. Music may be everything to someone, but for others, passions will vary.

"Did They Say 'Union Station'? Or 'My Aunt's Constipation'?" (Madagascar)

          I’m not sure if this has ever happened to other people (although, it probably has), but there have been times when I was dancing to a great beat and yelled out, “I love this song!” and my friends looked at me like I was crazy.

“Lauren, this song is about how he is proud of his talent in keeping two girls from knowing each other exist.”

My response?

“Oh…um…Is that what they said? OH! Who pays any attention to the words? I just love the beat!” and I would keep on dancing.

That was the past! Granted, there are still plenty of songs that I enjoy dancing to while being completely ignorant of their lyrics or purpose, but it is rare.

            Perfect example: “Love the Way You Lie” by Eminem, featuring Rihanna. I realize not everyone is familiar with this song, but feel free to YouTube it to gain a better understanding of where I am coming from. There are plenty of people who claim, “Oh, I love this song!” and they will belt out the chorus:

                        “Just gonna stand there and watch me burn,

                        But that’s alright because I like the way it hurts.

                        Just gonna stand there and hear me cry,

                        But that’s alright because I love the way you lie.

                        I love the way you lie.”

However, when the verses arrive, everyone gets quiet or just mumbles something…

           

                        “I can’t tell you what it really is; I can only tell you what it feels like…

                        Something something something Where you goin’? I’m leaving you!

                        No you ain’t! something something something something

                        Something about Superman and Lois Lane..."

            If you asked half of these people what this song was about, they may not really have a clue. I am definitely not saying that there is anything wrong with just enjoying music for the way it sounds and nothing else. If that is an individual’s escape and his refuge, then by all means, enjoy! However, I, myself, find a song a bit more intriguing if I break it down and really listen to the words. “Love the Way You Lie” is more than just the sarcasm in loving lies or the fact that Megan Fox is in the music video (just one more reason to go look up the song!). There are a handful of different interpretations depending on your point of view. My friends and I were recently discussing this song and we found different opinions to be relevant to the meaning behind the lyrics. Some would say that Fox’s character in the song was being overly attached and dramatic and was always threatening to leave. They took the male’s side. On the other hand, some would say that the male character in this song was taking his woman for granted and just playing her like a puppet. In their opinion, she had every right to always want to leave. He was abusive and did not care about her feelings.

            Analyzing a song does not necessarily mean one interpretation for all. Everyone will have different opinions based on how the song moved them. Dissecting a song can be very “healthy” for a good listener. Understanding the purpose behind the notes and lyrics can provide the listener with a deeper and richer experience. It gives on the chance to possibly connect with the artist/author on an emotional level. If done with enthusiasm, it could never detract from the experience. If you enjoy something so much, how can absorbing all information possible about it be a bad thing?

"I'll Listen to Anything At Least Once!"

If I were to take you along in my car for a little trip, I would most likely offer you my booklet of cd's to choose from. Maybe you would be shy and say, "Oh, it's ok. You can put on whatever you want to listen to;" in which case, I would urge you to go ahead and pick. Obviously if it is in there, I like it! I almost guarantee you can find something you would enjoy. I have contrasting artists from Rihanna to Shania Twain, Eminem to Frank Sinatra, Bullet for My Valentine to Casting Crowns, Aerosmith to Backstreet Boys, Dizmas to Doris Day, Phantom of the Opera to Disney hits, Usher to George Strait, Lady Antebellum to Evanescence, Pussycat Dolls to Dixie Chicks, etc. I imagine you get the picture. If nothing peaked your interest, I still would not mind any suggestions. I am considered a "flexible listener". I enjoy such a variety that I'm difficult to disappoint. I have a few friends and coworkers that put together various collections of their work for me to listen to. I enjoy the contrast!

My musical collection changes each time I experience a personal change. Typically, my tastes will change depending on my current mood. However, certain events in my life have introduced new artist, as well as new genres altogether.

When I was in elementary school, my favorite music to listen to was country. You could always find my radio tuned to 103.1 KTPI (our local country radio station at the time). As I have said in my previous blog, I was a huge fan of Shania Twain. I know she is considered "pop country", but she was still played on the station nonetheless. Next to Twain's albums, I would store artists, such as Faith Hill, Dixie Chicks, Garth Brooks, Martina McBride, Brad Paisley, and so on.

In third grade, when I began to play the violin, I was introduced to classical music. I found this style inspiring as a new musician. I thought Bach, Beethoven, and Mozart were pure geniuses. My elementary years also held my crushes on the Backstreet Boys and 'NSync. These were influences from my friends at the time. This was also about the time that we all wanted to be a Spice Girl.

Up until high school, I maintained the same interests as before with an occasional addition. Any new additions, including Story of the Year, Yellowcard, Relient K, and Avril Lavigne, were usually due to friends sharing their collections with me. With high school came new major experiences. I became actively involved in our school's drama program and I began to pull soundtracks for various musicals off of the shelves. For every play I participated in, I owned the soundtrack. Not only was I rehearsing, but I genuinely enjoyed the music. My Fair Lady and Phantom of the Opera were among my favorites. I could listen to those for hours at a time. Also, I attended more parties where music by Usher, Fergie, Pussycat Dolls, and Beyonce' was popular. I am more than positive that their music was popular way before I became a listener, but I was a bit slow at discovering a feel for this genre. Now it is one of my favorites! My collection made room for R&B, hip hop, and rap and my radio station of choice changed to KIIS FM. All of my friends listened to this, as well. I also became involved in relationships and therefore the mushy romantics often rang from my speakers. With relationships, however, comes breakups. After one breakup in particular, my friend made me a mixed album called "Boys Suck". It included songs like "To The Left" by Beyonce, showing me that I did not need a man to make me happy.

Since graduation, my music interests have continued to expand and consume more artists. I welcome new additions with open arms. I have had two children since graduation and a vast part of my listening is tuned to Disney hits, nursery rhymes, and Baby Einstein lullabies. However, last week, I had Katy Perry or PINK (two of my ultimate favorite artists) playing in my minivan, but this week, I am enjoying a mix of Frank Sinatra and Doris Day. I may just be in the mood for a little Norah Jones tomorrow. Who knows?

My musical life has seen pattern of additions as new events occur and different chapters of my life unfold. I find it exciting to be introduced to new artists and styles and I can hardly wait to see what is in store for my collection in the future!

The Musical Notes of My Life's Measures

I suppose I never really thought of music as an instrument that has shaped my life and made me the person that I am today. Music was always just something that seemed to be there. My dad played the bass for an 80's rock band called "Lucksinger" and still plays recreationally for the "Burnin' Blues Band", most popularly known as entertainment at various local Antelope Valley restaurants, such as Fresco II. Thus, music was always a part of my growing up. As a musician, you can just imagine my father's pride when his elementary aged daughters requested to be enrolled in violin lessons.

Before I began playing, I was a country music girl to the core. I was Shania Twain's biggest fan. I sang to her songs on a daily basis, whether I was in my room or my parents' car. I can still remember the tone of my parents' voices when they reluctantly asked "Again?" to my request of Shania's music. Singing, especially to her music, was a passion of mine.

As an aspiring seven year old violinist, a different form of musical arts was introduced to my life. With it, self-discipline, persistence, and patience played a major role. Constant practice and repetition of various scales, posture, and short songs required discipline. If  had not sincerely wanted to learn, there was no way I would have continued. From third grade until my eighth grade year, I worked hard playing in the school orchestra, as well as being hired to play recreationally at private parties and special events around the Valley. My freshman year in high school, I played the role of the Fiddler in the school's production of Fiddler on the Roof. I have been playing the violin ever since.

In middle school, I tried out for the school worship team and was approved. I loved singing my heart out for the glory of God. In high school, I enrolled in the musical theatre/drama program. I wanted to try my hand at acting and singing together. My first major production, Bye Bye Birdie, occurred my sophomore year and I was cast as the lead, Rosie Alvarez. With voice lessons and much rehearsal, I felt accomplished with my role. In the following years, I played more school roles, as well as participated in community theatre.

Being an active participant in the musical world, I would tend to believe that it is impossible for anyone to live their lives unaltered by music. Hearing loss is not an excuse. In middle school and early high school, I participated in Signs of Worship, a group where American Sign Language was performed to music to bring God glory. Every one can participate in music.

Music brings people together. Whether it be concerts or worship, groups of people will gather for one cause: to celebrate music. Whether one person likes R&B music and the other indulges in more of a country feel, those two people still have something in common. They both appreciate feelings being expressed and being put to music to share. No matter what background, race, or religion, thousands of Americans will unite together to sing The National Anthem at a game. No matter what background, race, or religion, thousands of pre-teens and older will gather together at a Lady GaGa concert or Justin Bieber concert, etc.

I expect music to continue bringing people together, especially when studied and analyzed together. Music is a language that everyone can speak. Share your ideas with the world.