4 C's of Media #1 - Media as a Construct of Reality
All works of media present reality in some shape or form. Although the attempt is made for this to be natural, this reality is actually the carefully crafted result of many decisions about visuals, sound, language, and editing.
The Beatles' 1st film is done in the style of a 'mock documentary' or 'mockumentary', giving fans a look at a typical 36 hours in the lives of the Fab Four. What is the life of a rock 'n' roll star like, according to the film A Hard Day's Night? In the table below, record as many realistic and unrealistic aspects of the rock 'n' roll lifestyle that you can (minimum of 5 for each).
Realistic:
- Crowds of screaming girls.
- The boy’s sense of humor and getting into trouble.
- The rehearsing/ sound check.
- The behind the scenes video shoot.
- The people they work with wanting them to advertise clothing.
Unrealistic
- Being able to go places without being recognized.
- The scene at the police station.
- The spare time they seem to have to get into all this trouble.
- The playing music looks unrealistic like it’s dubbed or something.
- How they boss around and sass their manager.
Overall, do you think this is an accurate portrayal of what it would be like to be a rock 'n' roll star? Why or why not?
I think that this is probably a somewhat accurate portrayal of what it would be like to be a rock ‘n’ roll star, just exaggerated for comedic effect. I just think that being on tour would be a lot more work than fun, and I don’t think this movie really shows that.
4 C's of Media #2 - The Media uses Codes and Conventions
Codes and conventions are the familiar and predictable forms and techniques used by the media to communicate certain ideas or create a desired impression. In film and music, these can be stylistic elements that help identify the genre or type that media work belongs to.
Pay attention to the style of filmmaking in A Hard Day's Night. How does the director, Richard Lester, try to reflect the style of The Beatles' music in the style of music? Make point form notes that show the stylistic similarities in the languages of both mediums.
4 C's of Media #3 - Media contains Creeds and Values
The media convey a number of explicit and implicit ideological messages, or values. These values are interpreted by our own personal values and ideologies.
Just like rock 'n' roll music, A Hard Day's Night is primarily aimed at young people. How is the conflict between the older and younger generation shown in the movie? Which generation is seen as more positive? Explain your answer with specific reference to the film.
This movie depicts the younger generation as up to no good and always getting into trouble. The older version is shown as being gwrumpy and trying to ruins the younger generation’s fun. An example of this is in the train scene when the boys are messing around with the one guy and he’s just not having it. Another is when the boys are told not to leave and they do, their boss gets really angry with them.
4 C's of Media #4 - Media as a Commercial Industry
While the artists themselves may be using the media for self-expression, we must always be aware that the media is a commercial business.
1. How can the film A Hard Day's Night be seen as a commercial for the band The Beatles?
The fact that the film is half made of them singing while girls are screaming is probably the number one thing that just makes it seem like a commercial. It sends the message “listen to The Beatles, everyone else does.” It kind of takes away from their amazing talent.
2. During the scene where George Harrison is mistaken for an auditionee for a British TV show, the movie satirizes the superficiality of the music industry based on outward appearance. Do you think this sort of self-awareness makes the film more credible as a piece of art in its own right? Or is it still just a commercial?
I think the self-awareness of this scene is an interesting touch. I do think that it makes the film somewhat more credible as a piece of art because it kind of pokes fun at the superficiality of the music industry. However, at the end of the day the movie still is just a commercial for The Beatles.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Listening Journal Assignment
Brother Can You Spare a Dime?
Bing Crosby
Recorded in 1932
Brother Can You Spare A Dime, by Bing Crosby was possibly the first recorded protest song ever. The music was written by Vip Harburg, and the lyrics by Jay Gourney. The song was written during the great depression and tells the story of a worker who has helped build his country and then finds himself out of work during the depression. Brother Can You Spare A Dime? soon became the anthem of those going through hard times during the depression and is historically noteworthy. I think that this song is pretty depressing to say the least, but the fact that it was written during the great depression and is telling a story of the great depression just really gives an in-depth look at what it was actually like.
All or Nothing at all.
Frank Sinatra
Recorded 1939, Columbia Records
All or Nothing at all, was the first song that Frank Sinatra recorded as a professional singer. A songwriter named Arthur Altman wrote the music for this song, and a man named Jack Lawrence, who had written for Billie Holiday and Bing Crosby wrote the lyrics for it. Publishing mogul Lou Levy found three prominent orchestras to record it; One lead by Freddy Martin, another by Jimmy Doresey and the third by Harry James, with vocals by Frank Sinatra. All three of these recordings were a flop with the public. Despite this set back, Frank Sinatra soon joined a successful bandleader named Tommy Doresey and his career took off. This song has also been recorded by John Coltrane, Barry Manilow and Diana Krall. My personal opinion on this song is that it’s really nice and smooth. I love the instrumentals and the style of this music.
Nature Boy
Nat King Cole
Recorded 1947, Capitol Records.
Nature Boy, recorded by Nat King Cole, was released in 1947. It was written by Eden Ahbez, one of the strangest writers in the pre-Hippie era. The content of this song is based on a 1940’s Los Angeles based group called “The Nature Boys” of which Ahbez was a member of. Although Nat King Cole was the first to record this song, there have been many other versions of this song preformed by David Bowie, Frank Sinatra, Kurt Elling and Jamie Cullum. The song has been used in many movies such as The Boy with Green Hair, (1948) Untamed Heart, (1993) and the opening credits of Moulin Rouge (2001.) A Canadian film called Nature Boy (2000) was inspired by this song. My personal thoughts on this song are that this song is a bit unusual for Nat King Cole, and a bit eerie sounding but I really love it. I think Nat is extremely talented and he has such a calm and sweet voice.
That’ll be the Day
Buddy Holly
Recorded 1957, Decca Records
That’ll be the Day, written and recorded by Buddy Holly was a song that Buddy Holly wrote with his band mates. This is the song that Buddy owes his success to, the song that kicked off his career. The idea for the song dawned on him after seeing a John Wayne western movie called The Searchers, where Wayne’s character proclaims “That’ll be the day” whenever someone suggests that something unlikely will happen. This song was originally recorded with Buddy Holly’s band The Three Tunes, but later re-released with The Crickets. I think this song is so extremely catchy I don’t know how anyone could ever dislike it. I can definitely see how people would think of Buddy Holly as a major music icon, he is very talented in singing and writing.
Respect
Aretha Franklin
Released 1967
This song was written by Otis Redding in 1965. It was originally made to be sang from a man’s point of view. Aretha recorded the song in 1967, for Atlantic Records. This was Aretha’s first song to top the charts in England. The song has been used in many movies including; Platoon, Forrest Gump, Mystic Plaza and Back to School. There is still much debate on weather the lyrics go “R-E-S-P-E-C-T, take care TPC” meaning “the coloured people” or “R-E-S-P-E-C-T , take care TBC” meaning “taking care of business.” The recording took place in New York with Muscle Shoals Rhythm Sections. This song is how she got her title as “The Queen of Soul” This song is definitely a classic. I think Aretha Franklin is extremely talented and this song is perfect for her amazing voice.
Let it be
The Beatles
Released 1970
The song Let it be was written by Paul McCartney. Many people believe that the "Mother Mary" was a biblical reference. However, the song was inspired by his mother Mary, who died when he was 14. The idea for the song came one night when Paul had a dream about his mother, and she came to him and spoke words of wisdom to him. Despite Paul McCartney’s disapproval of the Christain undertones of this song, the song did really well on the charts and is still one of the most memorable Beatles songs to this day. This is one of my personal favorite songs. I love the meaning behind it and the lyrics. I always thought that Mother Mary was a biblical reference too, but now I’m glad that I looked up information on this song, it makes the song just that much better.
D’ya Think I’m Sexy
Rod Stewart
Released 1978
Most of the music for this song was written by drummer, Carmine Appice. Rod Stewart had always been known for his soulful blues and folk ballads, but when the disco era came around he wanted to try something new. Inspired by The Rolling Stones song I Miss You, came D’ya Think I’m Sexy. This song became a huge hit and Rod Stewart donated the proceeds of the song to UNICEF. In 1979 an anti-disco parody of this song “Do You Think I’m Disco” was made by a Steve Dahl, it is actually really funny because it supports that like Mr.Edwards was saying, disco kids were the emo kids of that era. Many artists have covered this song. My personal favorite covers of this song are the N-trance version, and the Paris Hilton version.
Blitzkreig Bop
Ramones
Released: 1986
This song was written mostly by Tommy Ramone. Blizkreig is a German term for “lightning war.” Many fans interpret this song as a reference to Hitler, but it’s unknown weather it actually is or not. Some examples of how that could be interpreted is the “Hey, Ho, Let’s go” being the marching of the soldiers and “Shoot’em in the back now” possibly meaning Hitler being shot. Whatever this song means, it’s super catchy and fun and has been used in movies such as Jimmy Neutron, and commercials for AT&T Wireless. I’m pretty sure everyone who speaks English knows this song, and how could you not love it, it’s wonderful.
Santeria
Sublime
Released 1996
Santeria means “way of the saints” in Spanish. It is a kind of black magic and is in some places considered as a religion of cult. The song is about a man who is out for revenge of the Sancho, (Spanish slang for the man your woman is cheating on you with.) of his Heina (Spanish slang for beautiful woman.) The music video was made about a month after lead singer Brad Nowell died, created out of old concert footage. I think Sublime is one of the most amazing, most wonderful, epic bands in the whole entire world. They are definitely my favorite band ever, and this probably in the top five of my favorite Sublime songs.
Me Against the Music
Britney Spears feat. Madonna
Released: 2003
After a brief period of not being in the spotlight, Britney managed to reinvent herself yet again to make her fans (including myself) fall in love with her all over again. This was the first single on her In the Zone album. Madonna has traditionally believed that duets are gimmicky, and generally refuses to do them, but for Britney Spears she made the exception. Another reason why this song is so epic is because Madonna was an icon of an earlier generation and Britney, an icon of our generation and bringing the best of both worlds together had a great outcome. I was personally obsessed with this song in grade 6, and still continue to be an avid Britney Spears fan.
Banana Pancakes
Jack Johnson
Released: 2005
This song is my favorite Jack Johnson song. It’s from his 2005 album In Between Dreams. The story behind this song is that Jack was trying to get his wife’s attention when she was doing something, so he started playing: “You hardly even notice, when I try to show you, this song is meant to keep you, from doing what you’re supposed to” and from there the rest of the lyrics were written. The song is just about those lazy, rainy days. I really like this song because it’s so mellow and it’s a song you just want to chill to and one that’s fun to sing along to.
United State of Pop (Blame it on the Pop)
Dj Earworm
Released: 2009
Dj Earworm is known for annually creating a mash-up of the top 25 billboard hits from each year. So far, the best United State of Pop song is the most recent 2009 song Blame it on the Pop. It features 25 song from artists like Lady GaGa, Black Eyed Peas, Kanye West and Katy Perry. Ironically, I think this song is better than any one of the songs in it. This is probably the most well-done mash up I’ve ever heard, I put it on my facebook the first day I heard it. It really makes you remember the year that it is talking about.
Bing Crosby
Recorded in 1932
Brother Can You Spare A Dime, by Bing Crosby was possibly the first recorded protest song ever. The music was written by Vip Harburg, and the lyrics by Jay Gourney. The song was written during the great depression and tells the story of a worker who has helped build his country and then finds himself out of work during the depression. Brother Can You Spare A Dime? soon became the anthem of those going through hard times during the depression and is historically noteworthy. I think that this song is pretty depressing to say the least, but the fact that it was written during the great depression and is telling a story of the great depression just really gives an in-depth look at what it was actually like.
All or Nothing at all.
Frank Sinatra
Recorded 1939, Columbia Records
All or Nothing at all, was the first song that Frank Sinatra recorded as a professional singer. A songwriter named Arthur Altman wrote the music for this song, and a man named Jack Lawrence, who had written for Billie Holiday and Bing Crosby wrote the lyrics for it. Publishing mogul Lou Levy found three prominent orchestras to record it; One lead by Freddy Martin, another by Jimmy Doresey and the third by Harry James, with vocals by Frank Sinatra. All three of these recordings were a flop with the public. Despite this set back, Frank Sinatra soon joined a successful bandleader named Tommy Doresey and his career took off. This song has also been recorded by John Coltrane, Barry Manilow and Diana Krall. My personal opinion on this song is that it’s really nice and smooth. I love the instrumentals and the style of this music.
Nature Boy
Nat King Cole
Recorded 1947, Capitol Records.
Nature Boy, recorded by Nat King Cole, was released in 1947. It was written by Eden Ahbez, one of the strangest writers in the pre-Hippie era. The content of this song is based on a 1940’s Los Angeles based group called “The Nature Boys” of which Ahbez was a member of. Although Nat King Cole was the first to record this song, there have been many other versions of this song preformed by David Bowie, Frank Sinatra, Kurt Elling and Jamie Cullum. The song has been used in many movies such as The Boy with Green Hair, (1948) Untamed Heart, (1993) and the opening credits of Moulin Rouge (2001.) A Canadian film called Nature Boy (2000) was inspired by this song. My personal thoughts on this song are that this song is a bit unusual for Nat King Cole, and a bit eerie sounding but I really love it. I think Nat is extremely talented and he has such a calm and sweet voice.
That’ll be the Day
Buddy Holly
Recorded 1957, Decca Records
That’ll be the Day, written and recorded by Buddy Holly was a song that Buddy Holly wrote with his band mates. This is the song that Buddy owes his success to, the song that kicked off his career. The idea for the song dawned on him after seeing a John Wayne western movie called The Searchers, where Wayne’s character proclaims “That’ll be the day” whenever someone suggests that something unlikely will happen. This song was originally recorded with Buddy Holly’s band The Three Tunes, but later re-released with The Crickets. I think this song is so extremely catchy I don’t know how anyone could ever dislike it. I can definitely see how people would think of Buddy Holly as a major music icon, he is very talented in singing and writing.
Respect
Aretha Franklin
Released 1967
This song was written by Otis Redding in 1965. It was originally made to be sang from a man’s point of view. Aretha recorded the song in 1967, for Atlantic Records. This was Aretha’s first song to top the charts in England. The song has been used in many movies including; Platoon, Forrest Gump, Mystic Plaza and Back to School. There is still much debate on weather the lyrics go “R-E-S-P-E-C-T, take care TPC” meaning “the coloured people” or “R-E-S-P-E-C-T , take care TBC” meaning “taking care of business.” The recording took place in New York with Muscle Shoals Rhythm Sections. This song is how she got her title as “The Queen of Soul” This song is definitely a classic. I think Aretha Franklin is extremely talented and this song is perfect for her amazing voice.
Let it be
The Beatles
Released 1970
The song Let it be was written by Paul McCartney. Many people believe that the "Mother Mary" was a biblical reference. However, the song was inspired by his mother Mary, who died when he was 14. The idea for the song came one night when Paul had a dream about his mother, and she came to him and spoke words of wisdom to him. Despite Paul McCartney’s disapproval of the Christain undertones of this song, the song did really well on the charts and is still one of the most memorable Beatles songs to this day. This is one of my personal favorite songs. I love the meaning behind it and the lyrics. I always thought that Mother Mary was a biblical reference too, but now I’m glad that I looked up information on this song, it makes the song just that much better.
D’ya Think I’m Sexy
Rod Stewart
Released 1978
Most of the music for this song was written by drummer, Carmine Appice. Rod Stewart had always been known for his soulful blues and folk ballads, but when the disco era came around he wanted to try something new. Inspired by The Rolling Stones song I Miss You, came D’ya Think I’m Sexy. This song became a huge hit and Rod Stewart donated the proceeds of the song to UNICEF. In 1979 an anti-disco parody of this song “Do You Think I’m Disco” was made by a Steve Dahl, it is actually really funny because it supports that like Mr.Edwards was saying, disco kids were the emo kids of that era. Many artists have covered this song. My personal favorite covers of this song are the N-trance version, and the Paris Hilton version.
Blitzkreig Bop
Ramones
Released: 1986
This song was written mostly by Tommy Ramone. Blizkreig is a German term for “lightning war.” Many fans interpret this song as a reference to Hitler, but it’s unknown weather it actually is or not. Some examples of how that could be interpreted is the “Hey, Ho, Let’s go” being the marching of the soldiers and “Shoot’em in the back now” possibly meaning Hitler being shot. Whatever this song means, it’s super catchy and fun and has been used in movies such as Jimmy Neutron, and commercials for AT&T Wireless. I’m pretty sure everyone who speaks English knows this song, and how could you not love it, it’s wonderful.
Santeria
Sublime
Released 1996
Santeria means “way of the saints” in Spanish. It is a kind of black magic and is in some places considered as a religion of cult. The song is about a man who is out for revenge of the Sancho, (Spanish slang for the man your woman is cheating on you with.) of his Heina (Spanish slang for beautiful woman.) The music video was made about a month after lead singer Brad Nowell died, created out of old concert footage. I think Sublime is one of the most amazing, most wonderful, epic bands in the whole entire world. They are definitely my favorite band ever, and this probably in the top five of my favorite Sublime songs.
Me Against the Music
Britney Spears feat. Madonna
Released: 2003
After a brief period of not being in the spotlight, Britney managed to reinvent herself yet again to make her fans (including myself) fall in love with her all over again. This was the first single on her In the Zone album. Madonna has traditionally believed that duets are gimmicky, and generally refuses to do them, but for Britney Spears she made the exception. Another reason why this song is so epic is because Madonna was an icon of an earlier generation and Britney, an icon of our generation and bringing the best of both worlds together had a great outcome. I was personally obsessed with this song in grade 6, and still continue to be an avid Britney Spears fan.
Banana Pancakes
Jack Johnson
Released: 2005
This song is my favorite Jack Johnson song. It’s from his 2005 album In Between Dreams. The story behind this song is that Jack was trying to get his wife’s attention when she was doing something, so he started playing: “You hardly even notice, when I try to show you, this song is meant to keep you, from doing what you’re supposed to” and from there the rest of the lyrics were written. The song is just about those lazy, rainy days. I really like this song because it’s so mellow and it’s a song you just want to chill to and one that’s fun to sing along to.
United State of Pop (Blame it on the Pop)
Dj Earworm
Released: 2009
Dj Earworm is known for annually creating a mash-up of the top 25 billboard hits from each year. So far, the best United State of Pop song is the most recent 2009 song Blame it on the Pop. It features 25 song from artists like Lady GaGa, Black Eyed Peas, Kanye West and Katy Perry. Ironically, I think this song is better than any one of the songs in it. This is probably the most well-done mash up I’ve ever heard, I put it on my facebook the first day I heard it. It really makes you remember the year that it is talking about.
Protest Song Research Assignment
In his eight years in office George Bush has been a huge target for protest songs because of his seemingly lack of intelligence and the many, many mistakes he has made during his time in office. One of the most ridiculous things that Bush has said during his presidency is that “God told him” to invade Iraq. The song When the President Talks to God written by Bright Eyes’ lead singer Conor Oberst touches on many subjects from Bush’s so called “mission from God’ to his anti-abortion views and hunger for oil.
At the Beginning of the song, the writer asks, “Does he ask to rape our women’s rights?” which is referring to Bush’s ban on abortion funding. The songwriter obviously believes that women deserve to choose weather or not they will keep or abort their babies and feels that Bush is robbing them of their ability to choose what they do with their own bodies. The songwriter also says “Does what God say ever change his mind” If you believe that Gods way of doing things is what’s right, and questioning weather or not Bush is swayed by God’s opinion is depicting him as a cold-hearted monster. After listening to the part that says “What voter fraud must be concealed” you can tell that the writer believes that the 2004 election was rigged as many others speculate. By the songwriter saying “When the President talks to God, does he ever think that maybe he’s not? That that voice is just inside his head when he kneels next to the presidential bed?’” you can tell that he definitely believes that the whole idea of Bush saying that God told him anything is just a bunch of crap.
Because of George Bush’s “mission from God,” there is an ongoing, eight year war in Iraq. So far, this war has cost about $800 billion of US taxpayer’s money. The war has killed 4690 people, and left over 31,582 American soldiers wounded, 20% of which have serious spinal or brain injuries. 30% of all US soldiers that return home, develop serious mental health problems after three months of returning home. An estimated 600,000 innocent Iraqi civilians have been killed because of this war, and only thanks to Obama will the madness stop soon.
I chose this song not only because it is by one of my favorite bands, but because I like the message of it and I think the writer is effective in getting his point across. I totally agree with the message of this song, and I believe that George Bush made several huge mistakes that cost a lot of lives, and further branded America with a reputation of being a violent nation. I could be wrong about him though, maybe God really did tell him to invade Iraq, just like Hitler claimed that God made him kill the Jews.
When the President talks to God
Are the conversations brief or long?
Does he ask to rape our women’s rights
And send poor farm kids off to die?
Does God suggest an oil hike
When the President talks to God?
When the President talks to God
Are the consonants all hard or soft?
Is he resolute all down the line?
Is every issue black or white?
Does what God say ever change his mind
When the President talks to God?
When the President talks to God
Does he fake that drawl or merely nod?
Agree which convicts should be killed?
Where prisons should be built and filled?
Which voter fraud must be concealed
When the President talks to God?
When the President talks to God
I wonder which one plays the better cop
"We should find some jobs, the ghetto's broke"
"No, they're lazy, George, I say we don't
Just give them more liqour stores and dirty coke!"
That's what God recommends
When the President talks to God
Do they drink near beer and go play golf
While they pick which countries to invade
Which Muslim souls still can be saved?
I guess God just calls a spade a spade
When the President talks to God
When the President talks to God
Does he ever think that maybe he's not?
That that voice is just inside his head
When he kneels next to the presidential bed?
Does he ever smell his own bullshit
When the President talks to God?
At the Beginning of the song, the writer asks, “Does he ask to rape our women’s rights?” which is referring to Bush’s ban on abortion funding. The songwriter obviously believes that women deserve to choose weather or not they will keep or abort their babies and feels that Bush is robbing them of their ability to choose what they do with their own bodies. The songwriter also says “Does what God say ever change his mind” If you believe that Gods way of doing things is what’s right, and questioning weather or not Bush is swayed by God’s opinion is depicting him as a cold-hearted monster. After listening to the part that says “What voter fraud must be concealed” you can tell that the writer believes that the 2004 election was rigged as many others speculate. By the songwriter saying “When the President talks to God, does he ever think that maybe he’s not? That that voice is just inside his head when he kneels next to the presidential bed?’” you can tell that he definitely believes that the whole idea of Bush saying that God told him anything is just a bunch of crap.
Because of George Bush’s “mission from God,” there is an ongoing, eight year war in Iraq. So far, this war has cost about $800 billion of US taxpayer’s money. The war has killed 4690 people, and left over 31,582 American soldiers wounded, 20% of which have serious spinal or brain injuries. 30% of all US soldiers that return home, develop serious mental health problems after three months of returning home. An estimated 600,000 innocent Iraqi civilians have been killed because of this war, and only thanks to Obama will the madness stop soon.
I chose this song not only because it is by one of my favorite bands, but because I like the message of it and I think the writer is effective in getting his point across. I totally agree with the message of this song, and I believe that George Bush made several huge mistakes that cost a lot of lives, and further branded America with a reputation of being a violent nation. I could be wrong about him though, maybe God really did tell him to invade Iraq, just like Hitler claimed that God made him kill the Jews.
When the President talks to God
Are the conversations brief or long?
Does he ask to rape our women’s rights
And send poor farm kids off to die?
Does God suggest an oil hike
When the President talks to God?
When the President talks to God
Are the consonants all hard or soft?
Is he resolute all down the line?
Is every issue black or white?
Does what God say ever change his mind
When the President talks to God?
When the President talks to God
Does he fake that drawl or merely nod?
Agree which convicts should be killed?
Where prisons should be built and filled?
Which voter fraud must be concealed
When the President talks to God?
When the President talks to God
I wonder which one plays the better cop
"We should find some jobs, the ghetto's broke"
"No, they're lazy, George, I say we don't
Just give them more liqour stores and dirty coke!"
That's what God recommends
When the President talks to God
Do they drink near beer and go play golf
While they pick which countries to invade
Which Muslim souls still can be saved?
I guess God just calls a spade a spade
When the President talks to God
When the President talks to God
Does he ever think that maybe he's not?
That that voice is just inside his head
When he kneels next to the presidential bed?
Does he ever smell his own bullshit
When the President talks to God?
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Review Assignment
Basic information:
1. http://www.cinemablend.com/music/CD-Review-Paris-Hilton-s-Paris-848.html
2. The reviewer is Micheal Fraiman 3. The review is posted on cinemablend.com
4. The CD is not rated.
5. The focus of this website is to review movies and music.
Analyzing the Argument:
1. It’s hard to say that Paris fails to live up to expectations. If anyone out there legitimately likes Paris Hilton from a perspective outside of the dumb-blonde jokes on her show “The Simple Life,” then odds are that very same person lacks, shall we say, a refined musical taste. If this is the case, then Paris is perfect for such a person, and should be avoided like the plague by the remainder.
2. - it's a simple (admittedly addictive) techno tune
- musically, Paris is on par with a train wreck, but barring this fact, the album could be enjoyed if all you expect are a few light and easy dance club tracks. The album is, at best, decent but trite fluff-pop with no particularly distinguishing traits.
3. Negative Aspect #1
Element being criticized: Paris' singing.
Reasons: - Paris can barley be heard over synthesized bass and keyboards.
- The only thing Paris can do with her voice is a "sultry, low moan"
- Fails to hit any of the notes on the Rod Stewert cover song "Do ya think i'm sexy"
4. Element being criticized: Lyrics
Reasons: - Reoccuring theme of Paris' ego.
- Every song has the word "sexy" in it.
- Described as a collection of uninspired, self-indulgent, techno dance tracks.
5. Element being critized: Paris' lack of creative control
Reasons: - The album is more of an offspring of producer Scott Storch than Paris.
- Most songs are specifically written for her limitations.
My Paris Hilton CD Review (for lack of a “spicier” title)
The album I am writing a review on is Paris Hilton's debut album Paris. I admit, I bought this CD the first day it came out when I was in gr.8. I chose to review this CD because I figured I could easily find some bad reviews on it, and I totally disagree with 90% of what is being said. I will be critiquing the three main elements that the author of the review posted above including, Paris’ singing abilities, the lyrics, and Paris’ alleged lack of creative control on the album.
I agree that Paris is not the strongest of singers, but very, very few mainstream artists are strong singers these days. The author of the article mentions that her voice on the album is drowned out my synthesizers, or edited to improve it, or even that the songs are specially written for her inabilities. What the author probably didn’t consider is that every single artist on t.v is edited. Unless of course you go see them live, where you can hardly hear their voices behind their cranked up instruments and cheering fans. So needless to say I found this review to be a bit biased. I think that Paris did a remarkably good job considering that she is not musically trained, which so many of today’s crappy artists are. I don’t think Paris is trying to prove that she’s the world’s greatest singer, but if Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, the Disney kids and all of the auto-tuned rappers turned “sangers” (T-pain, Kanye) can become musical sensations then who says we shouldn’t give Paris a chance?
Another element I would like to touch on, is the lyrics of the songs on the album. The author mentions that the lyrics are “uninspired, fluff-pop,” and mentioned the lyrical theme of Paris’ inflated ego. What can you expect from a pretty girl who has been given everything she wanted since birth? If her album was a heartfelt, humbling collection of soulful music, people would call her even faker then they already do. Paris co-wrote most of the songs on her album, artists write about their lives. Partying, fashion, boys fighting over her, that’s Paris’ life, therefore her lyrics are real as can be.
The author of the article said that Paris had a lack of creative control. He mentioned that the album was more of an offspring of producer Scott Storch. Because of other albums produced by him, I agree that Storch is amazing and he most likely deserves a lot of credit in the production of this album, but Paris co-wrote most of the songs. Another one of his complaints is that Paris’ songs are written to suit her “vocal inabilities,” which seems like a pretty dumb statement because common sense says why write a song for yourself that you can’t sing.
Overall, I thought that the album was really good and the review was unfair and biased. I’m wondering if this author has the same views about all pop artists, or just the ones with rich parents and the world at her fingertips.
1. http://www.cinemablend.com/music/CD-Review-Paris-Hilton-s-Paris-848.html
2. The reviewer is Micheal Fraiman 3. The review is posted on cinemablend.com
4. The CD is not rated.
5. The focus of this website is to review movies and music.
Analyzing the Argument:
1. It’s hard to say that Paris fails to live up to expectations. If anyone out there legitimately likes Paris Hilton from a perspective outside of the dumb-blonde jokes on her show “The Simple Life,” then odds are that very same person lacks, shall we say, a refined musical taste. If this is the case, then Paris is perfect for such a person, and should be avoided like the plague by the remainder.
2. - it's a simple (admittedly addictive) techno tune
- musically, Paris is on par with a train wreck, but barring this fact, the album could be enjoyed if all you expect are a few light and easy dance club tracks. The album is, at best, decent but trite fluff-pop with no particularly distinguishing traits.
3. Negative Aspect #1
Element being criticized: Paris' singing.
Reasons: - Paris can barley be heard over synthesized bass and keyboards.
- The only thing Paris can do with her voice is a "sultry, low moan"
- Fails to hit any of the notes on the Rod Stewert cover song "Do ya think i'm sexy"
4. Element being criticized: Lyrics
Reasons: - Reoccuring theme of Paris' ego.
- Every song has the word "sexy" in it.
- Described as a collection of uninspired, self-indulgent, techno dance tracks.
5. Element being critized: Paris' lack of creative control
Reasons: - The album is more of an offspring of producer Scott Storch than Paris.
- Most songs are specifically written for her limitations.
My Paris Hilton CD Review (for lack of a “spicier” title)
The album I am writing a review on is Paris Hilton's debut album Paris. I admit, I bought this CD the first day it came out when I was in gr.8. I chose to review this CD because I figured I could easily find some bad reviews on it, and I totally disagree with 90% of what is being said. I will be critiquing the three main elements that the author of the review posted above including, Paris’ singing abilities, the lyrics, and Paris’ alleged lack of creative control on the album.
I agree that Paris is not the strongest of singers, but very, very few mainstream artists are strong singers these days. The author of the article mentions that her voice on the album is drowned out my synthesizers, or edited to improve it, or even that the songs are specially written for her inabilities. What the author probably didn’t consider is that every single artist on t.v is edited. Unless of course you go see them live, where you can hardly hear their voices behind their cranked up instruments and cheering fans. So needless to say I found this review to be a bit biased. I think that Paris did a remarkably good job considering that she is not musically trained, which so many of today’s crappy artists are. I don’t think Paris is trying to prove that she’s the world’s greatest singer, but if Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, the Disney kids and all of the auto-tuned rappers turned “sangers” (T-pain, Kanye) can become musical sensations then who says we shouldn’t give Paris a chance?
Another element I would like to touch on, is the lyrics of the songs on the album. The author mentions that the lyrics are “uninspired, fluff-pop,” and mentioned the lyrical theme of Paris’ inflated ego. What can you expect from a pretty girl who has been given everything she wanted since birth? If her album was a heartfelt, humbling collection of soulful music, people would call her even faker then they already do. Paris co-wrote most of the songs on her album, artists write about their lives. Partying, fashion, boys fighting over her, that’s Paris’ life, therefore her lyrics are real as can be.
The author of the article said that Paris had a lack of creative control. He mentioned that the album was more of an offspring of producer Scott Storch. Because of other albums produced by him, I agree that Storch is amazing and he most likely deserves a lot of credit in the production of this album, but Paris co-wrote most of the songs. Another one of his complaints is that Paris’ songs are written to suit her “vocal inabilities,” which seems like a pretty dumb statement because common sense says why write a song for yourself that you can’t sing.
Overall, I thought that the album was really good and the review was unfair and biased. I’m wondering if this author has the same views about all pop artists, or just the ones with rich parents and the world at her fingertips.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Blog Assignment #3
Everyone has a movie that reminds them of the summer they saw it. Weather it's what they were doing before or after the movie, the friends they saw the movie with, or how the movie made them feel, summer blockbusters bring back memories for everyone. Although the main intent of making summer blockbusters is to make money, and usually the only good parts are in the trailer, summer blockbusters do have the ability to bring people together and entertain them if nothing else.
A summer blockbuster from 2009 that I'm sure everyone is familiar with is Transformers: Revenge of The Fallen. I believe this movie is so successful, not only because it was extremely advertised, but because even though it is rated pg-13, a lot of parents let their children watch it because they play with the transformer toys or watch the cartoons, a lot of people watch it for the intense action scenes, and then there are some who simply watch it to see Megan Fox. Through all of the special effects, close-ups of Megan, and scenes of evil robots destroying everything in their paths, I don't think there is much artistic merit, but it does make for great entertainment.
Another summer blockbuster from 2009, is Bruno. It's obvious that Bruno was created for no other reason then to make people laugh, and gross people out. It is not a piece of art, it has no moral to the story, and it's plot line is completely pointless. However, I must say it was a pretty funny movie and I would watch it again. That's the way some summer blockbusters work, Bruno made a lot of money without actually being great piece of work.
Pointless comedy movies with a weak plot and no real morals to the story, no lesson learned are really typical of summer blockbusters. Another from 2009 that really fits this description, is The Hangover. I think anyone who has seen it would agree that The Hangover is a really funny movie and the money made from this movie shows it. Does that make it a good movie? It depends on what you look for in a movie. The Hangover was the kind of movie that it really wouldn't take a genius to make, probably just a 40 something year old man with the sense of humor of a 17 year old boy.
Summer blockbusters can be great entertainment, or just plain dumb depending on who you ask. In my opinion summer blockbusters are never as good as the trailer leads you to believe, and have more action/comedy than plot line or talent. Summer blockbusters are usually all hype and just an attempt to make the film industry a lot of money.
A summer blockbuster from 2009 that I'm sure everyone is familiar with is Transformers: Revenge of The Fallen. I believe this movie is so successful, not only because it was extremely advertised, but because even though it is rated pg-13, a lot of parents let their children watch it because they play with the transformer toys or watch the cartoons, a lot of people watch it for the intense action scenes, and then there are some who simply watch it to see Megan Fox. Through all of the special effects, close-ups of Megan, and scenes of evil robots destroying everything in their paths, I don't think there is much artistic merit, but it does make for great entertainment.
Another summer blockbuster from 2009, is Bruno. It's obvious that Bruno was created for no other reason then to make people laugh, and gross people out. It is not a piece of art, it has no moral to the story, and it's plot line is completely pointless. However, I must say it was a pretty funny movie and I would watch it again. That's the way some summer blockbusters work, Bruno made a lot of money without actually being great piece of work.
Pointless comedy movies with a weak plot and no real morals to the story, no lesson learned are really typical of summer blockbusters. Another from 2009 that really fits this description, is The Hangover. I think anyone who has seen it would agree that The Hangover is a really funny movie and the money made from this movie shows it. Does that make it a good movie? It depends on what you look for in a movie. The Hangover was the kind of movie that it really wouldn't take a genius to make, probably just a 40 something year old man with the sense of humor of a 17 year old boy.
Summer blockbusters can be great entertainment, or just plain dumb depending on who you ask. In my opinion summer blockbusters are never as good as the trailer leads you to believe, and have more action/comedy than plot line or talent. Summer blockbusters are usually all hype and just an attempt to make the film industry a lot of money.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Teenagers in the media
I think teenagers are misrepresented in the media. In the media teenagers are always represented as coming from some kind of group of clique as in nerds, preps, goths, when really if you look around the schools here there is not a lot of that at all. I think teenagers are more willing to be friends with people that don’t necessarily look or act like them than the movies or TV make them out to be.
I don’t think the people who make the movies, TV shows, etc. aren’t doing enough research into the teenage life, or they are and they just think that this kind of portrayal of teenagers is good entertainment.
Another thing that I always see in the movies and TV about teenagers is that all teenagers are sarcastic and extremely rude to all adults and figures of authority. When really, a lot of teenagers are really nice to anyone.
I think because of the way that teenagers are represented in the media, people have a very unrealistic view about teenagers, the way they act and the way they live their lives. I really think that this is an unfair representation of teenagers.
I don’t think the people who make the movies, TV shows, etc. aren’t doing enough research into the teenage life, or they are and they just think that this kind of portrayal of teenagers is good entertainment.
Another thing that I always see in the movies and TV about teenagers is that all teenagers are sarcastic and extremely rude to all adults and figures of authority. When really, a lot of teenagers are really nice to anyone.
I think because of the way that teenagers are represented in the media, people have a very unrealistic view about teenagers, the way they act and the way they live their lives. I really think that this is an unfair representation of teenagers.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
First Post.
1. I believe that media is a very important part of my life. Weather it's tuning into TMZ, checking out Perez's newest posts on Twitter, or just flipping through a magazine or even listening to music, media is directly involved in a lot of the things that I do. Most, if not all of the things that I buy or wear are things that I have seen in a magazine or on a commercial, and those are just some of the ways media effects my life.
2. I think the types of media I feel most passionate about are music, internet and advertisements/commercials. I love listening to music, and if I had to go a day without it I would probably go insane. I don't actually go on the internet that much, so I get all my notifications from Facebook and Twitter sent to my phone in a text message, so I kind of use my cell phone as a media device. I think one of the most important forms of media is advertisements in magazines and on billboards, that effects my life hugely by influencing what I want to wear or look like.
2. I think the types of media I feel most passionate about are music, internet and advertisements/commercials. I love listening to music, and if I had to go a day without it I would probably go insane. I don't actually go on the internet that much, so I get all my notifications from Facebook and Twitter sent to my phone in a text message, so I kind of use my cell phone as a media device. I think one of the most important forms of media is advertisements in magazines and on billboards, that effects my life hugely by influencing what I want to wear or look like.
3. I personally love our modern popular culture. I love all the ways you can use one device to do what many devices are made for. For example if you want to use the internet, you can use your computer, cell phone, or even your ipod.
4. Desert Island Choices - My favorite movie ever is Fight Club, I absolutely love it because it really makes you think and there is a crazy twist at the end. I hardly ever read, but I've got to say that Fight Club is my favorite book too, some of the things said in the book are so insightful and really make you think about the way that you see the world. My favorite T.V show is Gossip Girl because every season the plot keeps getting more and more scandalous to the point where I go crazy if I miss an episode. I would have to say that my favorite album of all time is Sublime's album Sublime. One day when I was like 9 I found that someone threw a CD in my backyard so I picked it up and listened to it for like years, and ever since I've been in love. Finally, my favorite website is Facebook, because it makes it easier to connect with friends who you don't see everyday.
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