Music and politics

[Channing]

Just wanted to know what you think about this mesh in style.

The Kerry vs. Bush election was indeed probably the largest most influential election we've had. And if some agree well let's just say it garnered more support than past elections. So influential to the point where music was involved as a tool of advertisement, propaganda, ect. Sometimes it worked for the better. Eminems song "Mush" exploded his career much further because of his "f___ Bush!" remark. While it destroyed other's like the Dixie Chicks.

Recently NIN wanted to play their song infront of a President Bush backdrop on MTV. MTV denied the oppurtunity and NIN decided to withdraw from MTV's attention because of it. Bite the hand that feeds you in front of the president's picture may be deemed offensive but it's obvious their message was conveyed.

I noticed in Green Day's new album they've made references also about the presidency and what not. It's become a widespread thing. Even in some hiphop albums it's been discussed.

So do you prefer music with or without a political undertone?

Personally I don't like it. When I listen to an artist I want to hear the originality that makes that group what they are. Not the defilement of politics and individuals. It just really demolishes the entire reason we make music. Because of what we feel. But if people feel your music and you begin spattering political agenda. It's a real turn off for some people.

[Madame Adequate]

Eh, they've always been doing that. Look at the 70s and 80s. And 50s and 60s. And... you get the idea. Even bands I really like, such as Incubus and RHCP do it.

Still, people can sing about whatever they want to. Just like I can cover my ears and go "Na naaa na na na na na naaa na na na na na naaaaaa!" 'cause I don't care.

[Channing]

Well of course people do it. But not all the time like now. Even long after the election is over it's still going around.

Unless you're Bob Marley the shine has definitely worn away.

[Shoeberto]

It wouldn't be so bad if the people doing commentary could write songs worth a damn.

[ZeZipster]

It wouldn't be so bad if the people doing commentary could write songs worth a damn.

[bipper]

Yes, music has always been a "weapon" to use against the politicians. Problem is, a lot of the better stuff is all open for interpetation.

I do think that political awareness has sadly become kind of a fad now adays. Regretfully, I am not as politically adept as I should be, but a I can pass some 13 year old kids who are discussing politcs.

It just seems like the new religion fad to me. Where its a good thing to talk about, so people bone up on it and then become the all knowing Gods of that subject. Then things become to arguative, and then somethinge else will become the hot topic.

bipper

[Azure Chrysanthemum]

I do not mind politically motivated music, I feel music is a great way to express oneself and if that is the medium one excels, why should they not use it to further their opinions? I myself enjoy writing, and I have on many occassions used my writing to express a political opinion. The problem arises when those who are writing the music lack the knowledge or skill to make a truly informed statement. When such trash is pushed into the public eye, it just trivializes both the statement and the medium that was used to make it.

[nik0tine]

Music and politics go together very, very well. However, it doesn't work so well with popular music, since it just kinda degrades the entire message.

[Madame Adequate]

Music and politics go together very, very well. However, it doesn't work so well with popular music, since it just kinda degrades the entire message.

Erm, whilst I can agree that a lot of modern popular music isn't so hot, how does popular = degrading as a rule?

[Gnostic Yevon]

I don't mind it, so long as it doesn't become the entire act. I think they should be able to do a few political songs, but they should write other types of songs too. Otherwise I'd suspect that the whole reason that they wrote the "Bush is teh s0xorz" song is to get attention, rather than a heartfelt interest in politics. And all the better if they can talk about their opinion intelligently when interviewd.

In other words, it's cool if they really feel that way, but not cool if it's a cynical attempt to sell more records.

[jrgen]

I prefer musicians who write lyrics about matters with some sort of importance to musicians who write pointless lyrics about love and happiness.

[Madame Adequate]

I prefer musicians who write lyrics about matters with some sort of importance to musicians who write pointless lyrics about love and happiness.

Because happiness isn't the driving motivator of every single Human being above poverty level. And love certainly hasn't inspired anything beautiful. :rolleyes2

[Princess_Yuna]

I like Green Day I like politics!Mwhahahahahahahaha......................................

[nik0tine]

Erm, whilst I can agree that a lot of modern popular music isn't so hot, how does popular = degrading as a rule?

Greenday.

Although it isn't necessarily a 'rule'. It's more like a trend. Bob Dylan was popular and he had excellent political songs.

[jrgen]

Because happiness isn't the driving motivator of every single Human being above poverty level. And love certainly hasn't inspired anything beautiful. :rolleyes2

There are hardly any split opinions about love and happiness. Close to everyone would agree that these occurences are something they enjoy experiencing, so what actual significance would a song with lyrics dealing with these topics have?