Week 14: Today's Impact on Music

"Music make you lose control"

Missy Elliot

One of the most unique things about a person, in my opinion, is their taste in music. No two people have the exact same favorite songs, and what you want to listen to is often influenced by the world around you, and what is happening in your life at that moment. For this week's Tuesday Fix, we are going to discuss how certain aspects of life and the music business directly affect the music you listen to. From record charts, to condiments, to streaming services, these have all shaped the music we listen to, and how that music makes us feel.

1. Is "Old Town Road" Real Country Music?: On of the most popular songs of 2019, and of all time, Old Town Road broke a great deal of records. However, due to external pressure, Billboard removed the song's classification of 'Country.' This video goes into what makes up a country song, and if the song fits all of those characteristics. It also goes into how country music, and other music came to be categorized as record companies started to form.

Watch Is "Old Town Road" by Lil Nas X real country music? by Say It Loud

2. Why Rappers Love Grey Poupon: Grey Poupon is a brand of whole-grain mustard and Dijon mustard which originated in Dijon, France. It's commercials compared the mustard as a sign of wealth and higher standards, while also being an affordable option. As the mustard gained popularity, it started to be referenced within movies and TV shows, and eventually reference of this mustard made its way into rap.

Watch Why rappers love Grey Poupon by Vox

3. Hip Hop & Streaming: "On the latest episode of Patriot Act, Hasan dissects how the rise of music streaming on platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and SoundCloud has influenced the sound, reach, and impact of modern day hip hop. While streaming technology has led to the commercial viability of SoundCloud rappers, it is simultaneously enabling rap as a viable form of protest against oppressive regimes around the world."

Watch Hip Hop And Streaming by Patriot Act

Call to Action! Take The next time you listen to a song, ask yourself the following questions: Does this song fit the genre its classified as? Could it be classified in another or multiple genres? What subtle advertisements or references is the artist referring to? Could this song have been shaped by the platform I'm listening to it on?

Be sure to share your thoughts with us on Twitter! Also, if you find articles, videos, or any other media you think others should know about, please share them with us!

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