Monday, October 22, 2007

Musically Challenged.

Screamo. Emo. Grunge. Pop. Rock. R&B. Rap. Easy Listening. Christian. Rock n Roll. Heavy Metal. Ska. Punk. I participated in a rather heated discussion about music and celebrities. My point was as follows: Although there is quite a variety of music out there, the fact that you can listen to that music does not necessarily make it music or mean that that type of music requires a high degree of talent.

For example. I thoroughly enjoy “music” from boy bands. However, I would agree that the music is not talented and requires little to no skill. That does not change the fact that I like that type of “music.”

Another example. I began attacking people who sing badly or scream. I stated that the “music” was bad. This person then proceeded to tell me that the person is merely “vocalitizing” which takes skill to which I respectfully and strongly disagree. He then stated that the music is really the speed and sound of the guitar and drums and that is talented. Again, while it may be music, it may not be filled with talent. My next point was this: consider ozzy osbourne and his band, Black Sabbath. Ozzy Osbourne’s “vocalitizing” stinks and requires no skill. His “band” may be musical and even slightly talented, but most people don’t even know their names. They know Ozzy, the terrible singer. Case closed.

In the end, music will be popular and considered important if someone thinks it is. If I sing on a Sunday morning and sell a million records, it doesn’t mean that I am “talented.” Two cases: Britney Spears and Avril Lavigne. Case closed again.

I also think that it’s always nice to have a healthy discussion including ad hominem attacks about how I am stupid – a clear sign that a person has run out of something intelligent to contribute.

5 comments:

Bethany Patrice said...

Was Merrill involved in this conversation by chance? I feel like this sounds like him.

I am a closet disco fan, and if any tries to tell me that is not music, I'll fist fight 'em. :)

Samantha said...

Surprisingly, he was not involved. But this conversation did happen and not with my husband either.

I also enjoy disco.

Again, I think that there are a number of things that can be music, but just because it's music doesn't mean it has talent! SORRY!

sharonie said...

it's so wierd what people think music is....that's why it's considered arsty. Some think it's talent and some don't.

By the way...read my blogg...you have been tagged!

Erik Scottberg said...

okay, i think i agree. but avril lavigne being compared with britney? don't get me wrong, i don't consider myself a fan and i never bought any of her songs, but i wouldn't consider her a "case closed".

whirledpeas1129 said...

Music is art. Like a piece of artwork, you can (and should!) contemplate its meaning(s).

Sometimes, paintings are made to look pleasing to the eye, to fill wall space. Sometimes, they're abstract and represent emotion. Still yet, some paintings explore new techniques, which others try to get a rise out of the public.

Music (as a form of art), is the same way, in my opinion. Some music is for entertainment; perhaps it's fun to listen to, rap to, or dance to. Sometimes, music is used to convey ideas or make a political point. Some artists try to use new techniques, whether that means funky antique intruments or a new type of technology. Some is meant to evoke emotion (perhaps to shock you, upset you, enrage you). Like artwork, most everyone has a personal preference. It sounds like singing ability really appeals to you, but remember that others out there just like a good beat, and others enjoy jamming out to a good guitar riff.

Funny thing, though--as for Ozzy Osbourne in Black Sabbath--I always had the personal opinion that he was an excellent singer! How funny is that?