Music Analysis #2

“One Mic” by Nas

This song, produced by Nasir Jones and Chucky Thompson, is known for its powerful lyrics and emotional impact. The song reflects Nas' personal experiences growing up in the ghetto and carries a message of resilience and empowerment. Each verse starts quietly and gradually builds in intensity, except for the last verse, which reverses this pattern. Nas drew inspiration from Phil Collins' "In The Air Tonight" for the song's vibe. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Nas explained that "One Mic" is about the power of hip-hop as a platform to address societal issues, despite criticism from figures like Bill O'Reilly. Nas sees the song as a means to speak truthfully about the realities of his neighborhood and the country at large, without sugar-coating or diluting the message. He expresses personal struggles and emotions, touching on themes of social injustice and oppression faced by marginalized communities in America. He performed part of the song at the 2022 Grammy Awards, where his album was nominated for Best Rap Album. Five musical elements I came across in this song are lyrics, beat, vocals, sampling, and arrangement.

Nas' deeply reflective and unfiltered lyrics graphically depict the struggles faced by marginalized communities, digging into themes of poverty, violence, and social injustice to establish a deep connection with listeners. The eerie piano loop and minimalist rhythmic elements mirror the stark reality and tension in the lyrics, allowing Nas' vocals to shine and intensify the emotional impact.

His emotionally charged delivery ranges from introspective whispers to passionate outbursts, capturing the fluctuating emotions of someone battling systemic oppression and personal turmoil. By sampling Phil Collins' "In the Air Tonight," specifically the legendary drum break, the track evokes nostalgia and urgency while establishing a connection to broader cultural references.

The arrangement of "One Mic" strategically builds tension and intensity, layering instrumentation and vocal ad-libs to create a climactic effect that peaks in a spiritual and emotional liberation, resonating deeply with listeners on a heart felt level.

Nas, born Nasir Jones in 1973, emerged from the Queensbridge housing projects in New York City, a hotbed of hip-hop culture in the 1980s and 1990s. He rose to prominence in the early 1990s with his debut album "Illmatic," which is widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. Nas' style is characterized by his intricate lyricism, vivid storytelling, and socially conscious themes, often addressing issues of urban life, racial inequality, and the struggle for self-empowerment.

Sources:

"One Mic." Wikipedia, 4 Jan. 2022, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_Mic

Nas. "One Mic." Songfacts, https://www.songfacts.com/facts/nas/one-mic

Exploring the Musical Elements of Beethoven's Symphony No. 3 'Eroica'

Ludwig van Beethoven, a German composer and towering figure in the genre of classical music, has left an indelible mark with his groundbreaking compositions. He is renowned for his Symphony No. 3 'Eroica,' a masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its rich musical elements. When analyzing this symphony, three key elements stand out: the use of dynamics, the innovative harmonic language, and the powerful thematic development. In this blog post, we will delve into these three key musical elements of this symphony and explore how they contribute to the overall listening experience.

In addition to my personal enjoyment of these musical elements, one musicologist, Scott Burnham, have also lauded Beethoven's Symphony No. 3 as a groundbreaking work of genius. He praises Beethoven's innovative use of form and structure in the symphony, noting its groundbreaking impact on the development of symphonic music (Burnham, 1995).

Dramatic Dynamics

The use of dynamics in 'Eroica' is striking, ranging from delicate pianissimo passages to thunderous fortissimo sections, creating a dramatic emotional landscape. Beethoven was a master at manipulating dynamics to evoke emotion and drama in his music. For instance, in the first movement, the bold opening theme is followed by moments of hushed anticipation, creating a sense of tension and release. As a listener, I find myself captivated by the sheer power and intensity of these dynamic shifts, which add depth and complexity to the musical narrative. 

Innovative Harmonies

The innovative harmonic language employed by Beethoven in this symphony, although ahead of its time, challenged traditional tonal boundaries, leaving a lasting impression on the evolution of Western classical music and paved the way for future generations of composers. In the 'Eroica', he employs daring harmonic progressions and unexpected modulations that keep listeners on the edge of their seats. One notable example is the development section of the third movement, where Beethoven seamlessly transitions between distant keys, showcasing his mastery of chromaticism and harmonic ambiguity. When listening to these harmonic twists and turns, I am, if not most individuals whom love music, struck by the sense of adventure and exploration that permeates the music, making each listening experience feel fresh and exhilarating.

Thematics

Beethoven's ability to develop and transform musical themes throughout the symphony is a testament to his genius. His music reflects his personal struggles, love for humanity, and a desire for freedom and individuality. The 'Eroica' symphony is aptly titled, as it embodies the spirit of heroism and triumph. Beethoven originally dedicated the symphony to Napoleon Bonaparte, whom he admired as a champion of liberty and equality. However, upon learning that Napoleon had declared himself emperor, Beethoven famously scratched out the dedication, symbolizing his disillusionment with the French leader. Despite this, the symphony retains its heroic character, with grandiose themes and majestic orchestration that exude strength and resilience. Feeling these heroic motifs, I am transported to a realm of epic struggle and triumph, where the human spirit triumphs over adversity.

Beethoven was indeed the composer of his own music. He was born in Bonn, Germany, and later moved to Vienna, where he fully realized his musical potential. Despite suffering from hearing loss later in life, Beethoven continued to write music of unparalleled beauty and emotional depth, inspiring generations of musicians and listeners alike. His passion for music was fueled by a desire to express profound human emotions and ideals, making him a true visionary in the world of classical music.

When listening to 'Eroica,' I am particularly drawn to the dynamic contrasts, which create a sense of tension and release, keeping me engaged throughout the piece. The harmonic language adds depth and complexity to the music, allowing me to appreciate Beethoven's forward-thinking approach. The thematic development provides a sense of coherence and narrative, making each listening experience deeply rewarding. I hope you all enjoy and appreciate this work of art as much as I did!

Sources:

BURNHAM, SCOTT. Beethoven Hero. Princeton University Press, 1995. JSTOR, https://www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctv131bv79.

WIKIPEDIA. Ludwig Van Beethoven. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ludwig_van_Beethoven

First Blog Post…

 Hi everyone. My name is Jonathan Snowden and I go by either Jon or Snow for short. Growing up in the heart of the South during the vibrant era of the 1990s, I was immersed in a world of warm hospitality, rich culture, and Southern charm. Raised against the backdrop of sprawling fields and towering oak trees, my childhood was filled with memories of lazy summer days, sweet tea on the porch, and the upbeat swag of hip hop  music. However, my journey took a different turn when I embarked on a 13-year military career, serving my country with honor and dedication. Throughout my service, I honed my skills, developed strong leadership qualities, and forged lifelong bonds with fellow comrades. Now, as I transition into civilian life, I have embraced my passion for entrepreneurship and the arts. As an aspiring artist, I am channeling my creativity into making some of extraordinary works of art.

While I don't play any musical instruments or dabble in creating music myself, my relationship with music is deeply rooted in appreciation and admiration. I find solace and inspiration in listening to a wide array of genres, with a particular fondness for hip hop. The storytelling aspect of hip hop, where lyrics paint vivid pictures and narratives, captivates me like no other genre can. However, I also enjoy exploring various other genres, except for heavy metal and country, as for one’s distorted sounds and the other’s repetitive patterns don't resonate with me as much. Attending concerts and experiencing live music in venues hold a special place in my heart. There's a unique energy and connection that comes from being immersed in the live performance of artists, and I thoroughly enjoy the communal experience of sharing music with others in such settings. Whether it's a small intimate venue or a large stadium concert, the thrill of live music never fails to uplift my spirits and leave me feeling invigorated.