Music analysis

Purpose: The purpose of this assignment is to analyze the class list in context to the times that we are in now using a set framework.

Directions: In no more than 750 words, you will analyze the song that you contributed to the Class Play List
(Links to an external site.)
along with two other songs using the following criteria. You will base your analysis mostly on similarities rather than differences unless indicated. It will helpful if you first review each of the songs on the list before making your selections. You may also want to review your classmates’ original introduction posts.

You will outline your paper in the following way:

Introduction

Background – Provide the title and composer/song writer for each song. When were the songs published? By which recording company?

Popularity – Where did the songs peak on the Billboard Music Charts in the US? Abroad? How many albums or singles were sold? Where do the artists rank in popularity – have they won a Grammy, Billboard music or other music awards?

Body with Points of Comparison

Lyrics – Focus on the written words and patterns in the songs. Are there common themes and symbols? Common word patterns or lengths? Do they have catchy phrases or lines that are similar? Is the chorus similar? In what ways? With each similarity, think about why this may be.

Music – What are similarities and differences in the music? What instruments are used and how? Do they have the same swing or tone?

Mood – Is the mood of the song similar (soft, calm, happy, energetic, somber, etc)? Are these types of song that you dance to?

Historical Reference – Refer back to the years that the songs were published – Do the songs have any ties to historical events or innovations in music?

Conclusion

Final Conclusions – Summarize your thoughts and include a reflection on your analysis.