GWSS Post #4

Arjun Sen

6/18/20

GWSS 241 Post #4


One of the most noteworthy aspects of this week's readings was Martha Gonzalez's article, where she describes her musical transformation from imitation to original. As she discovered her own unique music style, she was able to find her voice and develop it. Though it is unfortunate that he spent so many years simply imitating others, the passion she displayed in her original music far outshines those years. Her transition from absorbing all the music and dance around her throughout her early and teenage years to the confident expression of music with Quetzal is inspiring.

Her tenet "songwriting is storytelling" is one that has been long held in cultures throughout the world for centuries, and can be used to embody traditions, life-histories, and struggles faced by an individual, a community, or a race. One of the first examples of this that comes to mind in modern music is in Detroit rapper Eminem's early work; he describes the struggles he faced growing up with an abusive, alcoholic mother and an absentee father. By relating the hardships he faced in his early years through his music, Eminem achieved widespread fame and success, and is currently one of the best-selling artists of all time.

DJ Selections:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJO5HU_7_1w
My first selection is Eminem's 'The Real Slim Shady': I feel this song combines both of my takeaways from the readings: originality and storytelling in music. The song is a classic example of Eminem's early music, incorporating his comically violent style along with his struggles of being white in a predominantly black industry and with people attempting to copy his sound.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pr061VLRfs
My second choice is Drake's 'Glow'. The song powerfully describes coming into your own and finding yourself, and is a strong example of finding and developing yourself from humble backgrounds. I chose this song as to me, it speaks as to how powerful you can become when you truly find and understand yourself