Today I will be giving a peer review on a blog posted by Cristal Carter. This blog is about acclaimed Hip-Hop artist known as Common. In this blog Cristal speaks on the struggles Common faced while working towards mainstream acceptance being from Chicago, not really known for their Hip-Hop artist. Common had a long and steep mountain to climb with competition soaring from New York and the west coast. There is one thing Common had going for him, his love for Hip-Hop, talent, and a will to be successful. “I Used To Love H.E.R,” a song written by Common expressed his love for Hip-Hop but a disconnect with its current state, meaning the image being portrayed by other successful rap artist and the industry as a whole as being the culture of misogynist and homophobes glorifying criminal activities and mindless bewilderment. But Common did not succumb to the pressure of peers to degrade Hip-Hop by slander for a paycheck, and choose to stay true to the essence of the art and culture that he loved so much. He stayed true and became a world representative of all that is right with Hip-Hop and recently even invited to the white House by the President of the United States. What a great story and human being. Until next time bloggers, will say peace.
FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY
Peace Bloggers,
Like so many other prominent recording Artist, Prince’s father was a Jazz musician. Not only immensely influenced by his father, also notably the guitarist Sonny Thompson who later went on to perform with him as a member of “The New Power Generation” from 1991-1996. Born Prince Rogers Nelson on June 7, 1958 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He was named after “Prince Roger Trio”, a jazz band his father performed with as a pianist. Prince embarked on his career in 1978 with his debut album “For You” where he wore many hats. In fact he wore all the hats of songwriter, producer, instrumentalist, and vocalist. In 1978 few Artist tackled this feat successfully. Among those were Stevie Wonder and Todd Rundgren. This accomplishment was followed by his self titled album “Prince” in 1979, “Dirty Mind” in 1980, “Controversy” in 1981, “1999” in 1982, also a film and album release in 1984 “Purple Rain” just to name a few. Although Prince was considered a neo soul funk artist, he had much success as a crossover artist into pop music. Among his credits is “Purple Rain” that sold over 10 million copies in the US alone and stood at #1 for 24 weeks, won an Oscar for Original Film Score, 2 Grammys with this album eventually going Platinum 10 times. Needless to say Prince is no stranger to success. With an upbringing in the religion of Jehovah’s Witness, the provocative sexual theme of his music would seem for some a misnomer. But this paradox is not uncommon in the music industry, playing a vital role in the form of creativity, and the exploitation of the imagination. Prince throughout his career changed his name, style of music, production methods, as well as label as he went forward in his career. There aren’t many periodicals printed about Prince, I suggest because he lived his life in the public eye from such a young age, leaving no guesswork for tabloids and journalist. His longevity in the music industry is credited to his unique ability to adapt to the sign of the times. He is no doubt a musical icon and a literary mystery for scholars and musicians alike to marvel. One of the reasons I chose Prince for this research blog is because I believe Prince is the one who made pop music cool for me. As a youth his work expanded my mind and prompted me to sit at the piano for hours on hours trying to play his music. I was unsuccessful except for maybe one song, but I enjoyed sitting at that piano, and pretending to be Prince. In the next five years I plan on implementing what I learned from the career of Prince, in particularly focusing on pop music, incorporating all the other genres I love into it while subtracting what I don’t, making my music palatable for the multitudes of listeners, while being artistically transparent. I almost forgot how much I love Prince. Until next time bloggers, I will say Peace.
FOR EDUCATIONAL USE ONLY
Peace Bloggers,
For my Fantasy Band I am putting together the ultimate Pop group that would shock the world. For my Fantasy Band rhythm section, Tony Thompson from the legendary group “Chic” would be just perfect. My bass player would be no other than James Jamerson of the Funk Brothers, complements of Motown. My primary orchestrator on keys would be Richard Tee from the 70’s group “Stuff.” Piercing through to entice the ears of listeners I will have Tommy Tedesco on Guitar. To put a cherry on top of this master class of musicians I will be soliciting the one and only Annie Lennox. I chose Annie Lennox for my lead because I fell with her artistic range, there is no limit to what I can produce, and she is also a musician. With this star cast of pros I will be producing dynamic orchestral masterpieces centered, and focused on telling stories. The beats will be forward and unapologetic in nature grounded by the soulful precise bass playing of James Jamerson accompanied by intimate quiet moments where Tommy Tedesco and Richard Tee will be massaging the listeners ears with call and response transient nuances throughout the album creating ambiences transporting everyone to a better reality for just a little while. For example, a song that I would produce would be to bring to light the economical challenges facing America and how poverty effects our children as they navigate through life (http://youtu.be/Glny4jSciVI ). Sounds like a unlikely hit song but with this cast and some good sound lyrics, it can be done tastefully and all the while making people tap their feet. Although my example is grandiose, my song would be more dynamic and intimate in nature. As a producer, my contribution will be to make sure everyone is within the element of the group. I want the sound to be organic with all its parts moving as one machine. The name of this project or band would be simply “Fire”. One of the ways I would increase the projects exposure is through video documentaries. I would use the artistic privilege of abstract videography to create downloadable backdrops for the entire album, bringing listening parties back. I think with the amount of talent present in this group, I would welcome a major label as long as artistic control is granted to the group. Well, this was a mouthful and I hope you all can see my vision. I have added some links to at the bottom of this blog to help familiarize you with these artist if you are not already, and I hope your enjoy. On another note, what and whom would your fantasy band consist of? Until the next time Bloggers, peace.
APA
(American Psychological Assoc.)
References
HAMPP, A. (2014). ANNIE LENNOX. Billboard, 126(32), 57.
APA
(American Psychological Assoc.)
References
SAMSON HONORS MOTOWN GREAT JAMES JAMERSON. (2012). Music Trades, 160(2), 70-78.
FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY
Peace Bloggers,
This week I will be reviewing a blog posted by Cristal Carter. Her blog was about the infamous Roland TR – 808. I don’t think there are too many producers out there, if any who have not heard or used either the Roland TR-808 or a DAW equivalent plugin. Now I am going to delve right into my peer’s blog. Cristal like so many others has been attracted to the bass and kick of the 808. Its no surprise since it has been ingrained into the fabric of the American psyche. Many of use literally may have been listening to the 808 in our Mothers wombs. Cristal also made a very important point. She stated that “I use 808 sounds extremely often in my own music and it is still a sound that seems like it won’t be disregarded anytime soon. “ This is an observation I also have noticed. Electronic music is the most consistent form of music with the unique characteristic of being able to incorporate all other genres of music. And the 808, the most widely preferred sound of electronic music, is becoming a mainstay for this particular art. Great post Cristal! Feel free to add on my friends. Until next time bloggers,peace! https://cristalcarter.wordpress.com/
FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY
Peace Bloggers,
There is no mistaking the importance that Pro tools has had and continues to have in the field of Music Production. Pro Tools has established itself as the ringleader in DAW excellence and worldwide notoriety for being the primary tool of professionals in the recording arts field. The question that radiates through the celestial hemisphere of producers and artist alike is can Pro Tools effectively be a primary DAW for the production of electronic music. The answer is yes. Not only can you successfully produce electronic music in Pro Tools, but Pro Tools also is leading the pack in video capabilities making producing to visual arts in HD quality a professional DWA experience. These top-notch qualities provided by Pro Tools makes DJing performances lively and seamless. The impact Pro Tools is having on the electronic music scene is ground breaking, forwarding along to the next generation. As a producer starting out in this industry, Pro Tools is providing an excellent platform to create and innovate works to new heights. As a extra resource I have included a 7 page document written by Gino Roair, an accomplished composer and former editor for Electronic Musician magazine and now he runs Rastascan Records. This document will teach you about some of the new features of Pro Tools that will open your eyes to the possibilities this DAW provides. Also I have provided a short video on the Avid Video Engine available in Pro Tools 11. Lastly I have for you a short testimonial from electronic producer Rick Smith. Here is a link in HD http://www.avidblogs.com/music-behind-the-scenes-rick-smith-underworld/, along with some extra information on this subject. The future of electronic music is looking bright, dispensing the best music and video thus far. Just to recap. If there is any question concerning Pro Tools ability to produce quality electronic music, the answer is yes. Thanks for reading and feel free to add on to this blog. Until next time Peace.
FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY
Peace Bloggers,
Today I will bring up for discussion Kraftwerk and their albums released between 1974-1981. In 1974 Kraftwerk releases the classic Autobahn album. Although this album was not an instant worldwide success, Autobahn found its way into the basements, record stores, to DJs, and pawns shops around the United States, Europe, the UK, and eventually the world. In 1975 they released Radio Activity and although it is not as well know as Autobahn, is notably a more successful seamless album complete from start to finish. In 1977 they released Trans- European Express. This award-winning album solidified Kraftwerk’s identity and engrained the in history for their extravagant style and achievements, also their contribution to popular music. In 1978 they released The Man-Machine. Although this album was successful, it still did not reach the notoriety that was given to Autobahn. In 1981 they released Computer World. This futuristic album foretold the advancement of computers in our society. This album would also signify the peak of Kraftwerk’s careers. You may ask, why am I focusing on the careers of Kraftwerk in particular as German Artist, producing this weird robotic music, and why should you be interested? Well, I’m going to tell you. Kraftwerk Pioneered Electronic Music, picking up where Brian Eno had left off with his mastery of Ambient Music. Again you may ask why is this important? Well Kraftwerk laid the foundation for what we now call Pop Music, whom influence is ingrained in the fabric of world culture, our minds, hearts and souls like a distant relative always making an appearance and their presence known. The image and music of Kraftwerk was that of robots beating on drums and pushing buttons producing the most magnetic beats masked by rhythmic ambient transient sounds that take whomever is listening on a ride, a ride on the autobahn to be exact. Their style is likened to Brian Eno’s father’s self-playing piano. This machine when instructed to play, will play, and somehow invoke emotion in humans summarized of by Brian Eno. There are many instances where one could tell that they were heavily influence by Brian Eno, also American acts such as the Beach Boys and other American popular music. Kraftwerk worked tirelessly to become a contender in the mainstream music seen. To be known as a group to be reckoned with, and also to amplifying their German heritage. One of the reasons why Kraftwerk is known for influencing popular music is because of their approach to the music. They were scientific, studying American pop musicians and soul artist alike, and put together a formula that still is alive and kicking today. The beats were robotic and constant, enticing the listener to move although they, as robots in imagery did not move much, but moved in unison to the beat, adding on to the tension motivating the listener to move also, it was a call to action. For example in Hip-Hop, the artist would entice the audience by calling for them to wave their arms in the air like they just don’t care, followed by the unsurprising request for them to scream. Kraftewerk’s influenced notable artist like David Bowie directly, catapulting his music into the world’s ear that lasted for nearly a decade and beyond. The impression Kraftwerk had on me as a youth and now is the idea that art will transcend all obstacles, and will eventually reach the people. The title of Autobahn should have been in my opinion, “Dare to Be Different.” Take a listen and view a documentary, this group is worth the time. Don’t forget to add on and share with you friends the wonders of Kraftwerk. Until next time Bloggers, Peace.
Peace Bloggers,
Here I have a blog posted about the Beatles by Chris Harris. Overall, this blog is very informative. I was young also when I first heard the Beatles and I did enjoy the feel of their music. Revolver being my favorite of the albums, I can understand the excitement. One point that stuck out to me was the studio. How the studio was part of the production. Chris made very good points and painted a vivid picture of a masterpiece being made. There was so much good information here, I will beckon readers to take the time out and learn a little more about the Beatles. For the blog structure itself, I believe the title of the blog should be more descriptive, which would lead to a more precise subject matter for discussion. It sounded as if Chris was exited to write about the Beatles, that he tried to put everything he knew about them in one blog. There are some grammar errors, also missing punctuations in parts. But overall I really enjoy this blog and I learned a few things. The link to this blog is listed below. Until next time Blogger, Peace. https://chrisharrisblog.wordpress.com/2014/10/06/one-of-my-favorite-albums-of-all-time/
Peace Bloggers,
Today I also will be giving a peer review. I was prompted to give this review based on my own personal experience from being in a car accident, confined to a bed and not being able to move a muscle for many weeks. Displaced from everything I have ever known, and pondering what the future holds for me, I found myself in a new career, a new passion, immersed in the sound of music. This presentation by Sterling Bond is very thorough. It is educational and well planned out in the since that it gives a very unique view of Brian Eno. Poignant and relevant quotes, this presentation gives a more personal look at the core of the man who has contributed so much to the art of music. During the Dick Flash interview, I was intrigued by Eno’s response to plagiarism. Of course no one enjoys being robbed, but it makes me think about, or take more seriously the protecting of my work from pirates. In this same interview, it also surprised me to learn that so many people don’t understand how collaborating with others can produce a better product for all to hear, have and cherish. Last but not least the MGMT Tribute performance gave me a chill, it became apparent to me that, electronic music, and the way he used it, can be seen as a type of perversion. The idea that the producer can go into his studio and take natural acoustic sounds and pervert them, bend and shape them to his or her desire. This is sort of like a chemist in a lab experimenting with nature. Ordinarily this would be a cause for concern, but in this instance, nothing blows up, nor is it ingested orally. Again bloggers, you know the drill. Add on and feel free to share these conversations with your friends. The link to this presentation is below. Until next time Peace. http://prezi.com/dez6_eod7z4e/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy&rc=ex0share
For Educational Use Only
Peace Bloggers,
Today I will be giving a little background about Marvin Gaye, and how he influence music. Marvin Gaye’s image prior to ‘What’s Going on’ was that of a sex symbol. His music was silky and sensual. There is no doubt that he was the king of soul music. Oddly enough Marvin Gaye never wanted to be an R&B singer, he wanted to be more like Nat King Cole, with instrumentation predominately Jazz. His choice the do R&B was directly linked to the desires of Motown, and their image they have spent so much time building. The social and national concerns that changed his mind, and the coarse of his music, was the horrific account told to him about the Vietnam War by his brother. He was dumbfounded by the bloodshed and the total disregard for human life. And the children whom were innocent victims, being sent to war against their will, and the children in the aftermath of violent discourse. The original idea for the song, ‘What’s Going On’ came about after Renaldo “Obie” Benson of the “Four Tops” witnessing police officers beating children in the park for what appeared to be for no reason at all, which led to the question, what’s is going on? The “Four Tops” did not want anything to do with the song stating that it was a protest song. Even after Obie explained that it was in fact a love song, he still did not get through to them. In hindsight, everything worked out for the best, because Marvin Gaye was ready to sing this song, cosigned by his wife and thus history was about to change forever. Marvin, on board with this project, worked hard with a very focused effort to make this record a success. When it was finally done, it was presented to the president of Motown, Berry Gordy. The album was met with disappointment, Berry asking Marvin, “Why do you want to ruin your career?.” Berry Gordy went on to say that it was the worst song he has ever heard. After much protest and the refusal to work, the label released the song without the knowledge of Berry Gordy because their fans were screaming for more Marvin Gaye. Berry Gordy was livid until he found out that 100,000 copies had been sold in the first day of release. What set this album apart from previous albums was that this was a social conscience exploit that was designed to heal, inform, educate, and with no apologies, a call to action. Unlike the music previously released by the Motown label, most of the instrumentation was masterfully preformed and influenced by Jazz Artist. Most of them were hand picked by Marvin. He did not want the same sound associated with Motown. As a fan, listener, and industry professional, I was greatly influenced by Marvin Gaye. Its like the old saying, you don’t know what you have until its gone. As a listener in my youth he taught me how treat women, how to be a man, and most of all it was imperative that I be myself. Of coarse he did not do all of this by himself, but he did influence our fathers and other artist alike. He set the tone for love, peace, and understanding, even if it was just for a little while. All we had to do was push play. As always feel free to chime in and don’t be shy. Peace
APA
(American Psychological Assoc.)
References
Neal, M. (1998). Trouble Man: The Art and Politics of Marvin Gaye. Western Journal Of Black Studies, 22(4), 252.
APA
(American Psychological Assoc.)
References
Keizer, G. (2013). LOVE IS HERE AND NOW YOU’RE GONE. Virginia Quarterly Review, 89(4), 44-59.
AndreColeman KSJukebox.com 