Introduction

On this blog I will list some (not all) notes from our class on Poetry in Music. You will also find links to many of the songs we discuss in class, as well as links to other relevant and/or interesting sites. Make sure that you visit this site on a weekly basis. If you have questions, be sure to email me. My email is provided on your lecture plan.

In this class we will basically enjoy a cursory overview of contemporary music and in the process develop your skills to converse about music in general, but in particular to read, interpret, and discuss song lyrics (which are the poetry in music).

The course starts with defining some basic vocabulary (such as song’s metadata, melody, harmony, rhythm) and then journeys through the history of contemporary music starting with hymns, gospel and spirituals. From there we move on to blues and jazz, where after we will explore the beginnings of rock and roll and popular music. Lastly we will cover some of the major contemporary genres: rock, alternative rock and indie rock; country, blue grass and folk rock; soul, funk, disco and dance; pop, R&B and Hip-Hop. We also stop along the way to look at music as a means of protest and social comment.

I hope you enjoy the journey with me.