Music Culture Essay - Grade: A PDF

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short essay about the culture of music...

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Molly Nguyen MUNM 3113 Dr. Christine Souza 2.5.21 Culture of Country Music Country music is one of the most popular genres of music, especially in a state such as Oklahoma. It consists of many subgenres, such as country rock, pop country, etc… As someone born and raised in Oklahoma, I’ve been surrounded by country music my entire life. It’s great for many instances: on a warm summery cookout, at a football tailgate awaiting a Sooner victory, or even just as background music during an intensive spring cleaning session. But what is the culture behind country music? First and foremost, when considering the culture behind country music, we must consider the music makers. Music makers are the individuals and groups. They are not only professionals, but the every day person. I myself would be a music maker just by jamming out to some Carrie Underwood in the car on my way to class. When considering country, music makers tend to be more professional. Some of the most popular singers include Blake Shelton, Luke Bryan, and Kacey Musgraves. These individuals make music that describe their feelings, yes; however, they also make music that sells. Some play instruments as well, such as the guitar, but others mainly use their vocals. Knowing an instrument can be advantageous in country music, but it is not absolutely necessary. In country, music makers are those who provide the tunes and songs for the listeners. Listeners of country music are those of all ages and backgrounds. Country music has no age, and no race, however, I will say that there are certain ties to country music and the south.

That is not to say Americans in the north do not listen to country music, but often when listening to country music, you will notice a southern twang from many singers. For the most part, country music is a part of southern culture. I can’t think of a single time where I went to a tailgate or some sporting event in the south where country music was not played! Additionally, listening to country music tends to be more of a social activity. Of course, people do listen to country alone, but oftentimes, country music is that much better with others. Singing along to Sweet Caroline or Dixieland Delight with your friends is a joyous activity, one that brings bonding and friendship. Additionally, I consider the culture of country music to be very meaningful. For example, pop music is catchy and fun, but sometimes, the words carry no real meaning. Pop music is meant to sell. On the contrary, most country music has lyrics that speak to the author’s truths, their feelings, their inner dialogue. It’s used as a way to express emotions. Country music is not necessarily complicated, but it often comes from the heart. It is oftentimes simple tunes, one or two harmonies, and the use of instruments such as guitars, banjos, harmonicas, etc. It is not usually layered with tons of autotune, or mechanical additions. For example, one of my favorite country artists is Florida Georgia Line. While they do have a few pop country songs, a lot of their music leans heavily towards true country. In those types of songs, they rarely use harmonies, and if they do, it’s not more than one or two, and they keep the beat simple. They tend to use guitars, and simple elements of music. They do not overcomplicate. Overall, I believe the culture of country music lies in simplicity. It is used to tell stories, to share emotions, and to create bonds. The use of simplicity in musical elements gives the meaningful stories behind the music a chance to shine rather than being overpowered. Country music is a way of being people together, and people sharing their life experiences through song....