Author: bdmcdevitt

COVID-19 Timeline and Experience

Links to my banter posts:

I’m Returning to this Blog!

I was up all hours googling for relief while I was having major symptoms of COVID-19, so hopefully this helps someone who needs knowledge, history and documented experiences (like me) for a moment of comfort.

Contracting this virus was a whirlwind of chaos. I am thankful that I did not contract the virus when it was in the first stages of research and I cringe knowing that other people experienced the panic and feeling of unknown. Especially during the first half of 2020 when televised media and social media was in a constant turmoil of conflicting and scary information.

Disclaimer

I am not invalidating anyone’s experience with Covid-19. I am not insinuating that the virus is not a possible death that can happen, because it is and people ARE dying in the world. I’m am only writing about my own personal experience to contribute to the conversation that is circulating in media. I hope that this can ease the anxiety of someone that is researching after a COVID diagnosis.

I personally searched for documented experiences about it but was unable to find many posts that laid out timelines without something in the article putting me in a panic. There are some decent videos on YouTube though.

How It All Happened

I had been spending time with my mother the night before she went to get tested. She had no symptoms, we were having a great time AND as she was part of my inner circle of people I was associating with during this time. I felt safe from exposure.

I had to take my medication while I was with her, so I took my medication and I also took some water from her water glass.

Yes…..I’m sure you can see where this is going. Since I was a child, sharing a drink with my mother was not an uncommon occurrence. It’s an action that is commonplace in the South, and that was how I had been raised. Neither of us thought anything of the action.

The next morning she awoke with sniffles, nothing more or less and a small fever of 99.1. She was needed in the office for a meeting but her employer sent her to get tested that morning instead.

Yes, She Tested positive…

I had a feeling, and my intuition is rarely incorrect. I went straight to my boss when I got to work, let her know my mother was in the process of getting tested…..and that I had a feeling she was going to test positive.

Our office is in incredibly short staffed and it is also an essential position. I don’t think she realized that I was serious, but she put a call in for a laptop and VPN so I could work from home in the event that the test did come back positive.

I isolated in an extended office until half an hour later I received a call…..she was positive. It was a whirlwind from that moment.

I work at the hospital and my mother works at a clinic that is under the same umbrella of the hospital. We have the same occupational health department, so when I received that call, she informed me that occupational health was on their way to my office to ensure I went straight to a rapid test and that I left the premises and isolated for 14 days.

My First Rapid Test

As I am an essential worker, I was provided with a rapid test that produced results in three hours. I was told to perform my own self swab of the nose with the nurse verbally instructing me. It was not uncomfortable nor did it hurt.

If anything it was just a gross experience.

This first test, I took one day after exposure. It came back negative. I was told that I would be contacted in about five days to retake the test.

Where Did It Start?

My mother is NOT a social person. So the likelihood of her contracting the virus was statistically lower as compared to me or my father who both are unable to fully work from home. My whole family works in healthcare, and my mother is the one that has been mostly working from home as she works as a manager in a business office. It’s easier for her.

She rarely goes out with friends and is just a homebody most of the time. I did NOT think I would be exposed by her out of anyone I associated with. I miscalculated though, as my mother is a creature of habit and when voting day came, she went and voted in person.

She wore a mask and was as careful as she had been since the beginning, but per her recall, there were a significant amount of individuals NOT wearing masks. During this time in Alaska, it had not been mandated or enforced for the community to wear masks and as I’m sure everyone knows, Alaska is a conservative/Republican state. Many of the individuals in the community have had the mindset of COVID-19 being a hoax or part of the election hype (sadly).

I had been so careful since the beginning of the virus, but missteps happen and while I know this could have happened to anyone, I was so angry at myself for getting comfortable.

My Covid Timeline:

• November 4th 2020 – Exposed
• November 5th 2020 – Tested Negative
• November 6th 2020 – Headache/Fatigue
• November 7th 2020 – Headache/Runny Nose
• November 8th 2020 – Dry Cough/Headache
• November 10th 2020 – Headache
• November 11th 2020 – No symptoms (weirdly, definitely a calm before the storm)
• November 12th 2020 – Tested Positive – No symptoms in the AM but in the PM Dry Cough/Body Aches/Headache/Nausea AND Diarrhea/Sinus Pressure/Runny Nose/Fatigue/Extreme Thirst
• November 13th 2020 – Dry Cough/ Sore Throat/ Body Aches/Headache/Nausea and Loss of appetite/Sinus Pressure/Runny Nose/ Fatigue/ Extreme Thirst
• November 14th 2020 – Sore Throat/ Body Aches/ Runny Nose
• November 15th 2020 – Body Aches/ Headache/ Nausea/ Loss of Appetite/ Sinus Pressure/ Fatigue/Ear Ringing
• November 16th 2020 – *Loss of Taste and Smell*/ Sore Throat/ Body Aches/ Headache/ Nausea/ Loss of appetite/ Sinus Pressure/ Fatigue
• November 17th 2020 – *Loss of Taste and Smell*/Dry Cough/Sore Throat/ Body Aches/ Fatigue
• November 18th 2020 – *Loss of Taste and Smell*/ Body Aches/ Nausea/ Loss of Appetite
• November 19th 2020 – *Loss of Taste/ Minor return of hints of smell (one nostril only)*/ Congestion/Fogginess (Heavy Head)
• November 20th 2020 – *Loss of Taste/ Minor return of hints of smell (one nostril only)*Congestion/ Fogginess (Heavy Head)/ Difficulty Breathing (taking deep breaths—I will further talk about this below)
• November 21st 2020 – *Loss of Taste/ Minor return of hints of smell (one nostril), (Heavy Head)/ Difficulty Breathing (taking deep breaths)
• November 22nd 2020 -*Loss of Taste/ Minor return of hints of smell (one nostril, (Heavy Head)/ Difficulty Breathing (taking deep breaths)
• November 23rd 2020 *Loss of Taste/ Minor return of hints of smell (one nostril)
• November 24th -*return of slight taste/smell
• November 29- *some of taste/smell has returned but food does not taste right. I’m almost convinced that my slight ability to smell is tricking myself into believing I can taste something. Soda right now tastes like absolutely nothing.*
• December 4th 2020 – Ok, so taste is highly muted, things that should be flavorful are not computing and I was definitely using my nose to trick myself
• December 9th 2020- taste is still muted, I get hints of taste and smell is almost like I am smelling something that is covered in plastic so it’s not full effect.
• January 5th, 2021 – Smell and taste is finally back to normal

Loss of Taste and Smell

(Read if you have anxiety)

This symptom is the one symptom that EVERYONE has been inquiring about. During my recovery time, I had thought that I had dodged this symptom. As you can see above I had been having pretty significant symptoms for about a week before it finally occurred – 11 days after I was exposed to COVID-19.

This symptom I have heard is usually the first indicator, but that did not happen for me. My mother lost her senses about five days after being exposed and my father had this AS his first symptom. It’s hard to tell what date he was actually exposed so I am unable to provide an accurate timeline for him.

Let me first acknowledge that I utilize my senses daily to assist with my anxiety. I have been on medication in prior years to help my anxiety but I try to stay away from manufactured medication as much as possible and use my coping skills. This means centering and grounding myself as often as I can with deep breathing, meditation, essential oils, relaxation, etc.

I utilize essential oils in my humidifier to help relax and sleep. I went to bed the night of the 15th at 1 :00 AM, and woke up at 2:30ish AM quite suddenly in a panic. I could not smell ANYTHING. It was just like that and suddenly. My sudden awakeness tells me how much I genuinely rely on my sense of smell to assist with relaxation, especially at night.

Just please note, if you have anxiety and you lose your sense of smell and taste – It is going to suck so much. Period. Centering yourself with taught coping skills is ridiculously difficult without smell, atleast it was for me. I had to find other coping methods, one being the feel and sound of running hot water (RIP my water bill). I am sorry for anyone, especially with anxiety, that has to go through the experience.

I do not know how to really explain, but my experience was significantly different from my family. It sucked for them, but they were not in a constant state of anxiety because of this symptom and they could function. I could barely force food down my throat, it was a chore. I could tell they genuinely thought I was overreacting, but I have not ever really opened up about my mental health with my parents so I think they were unable to understand what was happening.

The Bright Side?

I did go to the ER- but not because of COVID. COVID brought to light underlying conditions I carried and had no idea about.

Remember the breathing problems in my timeline? It had nothing to do with my lungs and everything to do with my vocal chords and a swollen lymph node (that made me feel like I was being choked).

Also, turns out I have had a Hiatal Hernia for YEARS and had no damn clue. I had been diagnosed with asthma when I was 21 and consistently had the revolving door of ‘it’s just minor asthma’ when in reality my vocal chords have been getting fucked up because of constant acid from this hernia causing them to restrict/swell and make it difficult to breathe.

No wonder the inhaler never worked….

I hate to say that there was a bright side to COVID (because legitimately the entire experience was miserable and I’m still suffering), but if I had not contracted it, I never would have known about the hernia. The hernia is a little scarier for me as my great grandmother actually passed away from an untreated hiatal hernia.

I could have continued on never knowing as I do not notice the acid reflux or heartburn, but apparently it is there and effecting my vocal chords and breathing (the sudden raspy voice since I was 21 makes so much sense now.) the lack of noticing the heart burn, per my doctor, is contributed to my high pain tolerance 🤷🏻‍♀️

Conclusion To My Banter

Be careful even amongst your inner circle. I had never thought I would get this virus from my mother who never leaves the house.

Wear a mask, sanitize, wash your hands, social distance and stay safe. 💜 Hopefully this information is helpful for someone, and leave a comment if you have any questions that I may have not answered (I will respond, promise).

My one comfort is that this will all be a fever dream by the end of the year (hopefully not next year).

Britt

Continue reading “My Covid – 19 Experience (Symptoms and Timeline)”

I loved writing my thoughts and opinions. I also genuinely enjoyed sharing stories about myself and my experiences.

I’m 100% positive that I do not have any readers, but the idea that I can post my thoughts, reviews, experiences, and life in general for me to return to in the future is an ideal and nice idea. So, I’m going to do it. If people happen to read along and maybe find something relatable, then that’s nice too.

I mostly will talk about my lifestyle (Keto all the way), health (mental and physical), music (I mean KPOP is integral in my life), travel and provide reviews on products or internet sites that I try out or think is relevant for someone to know.

I am most likely going to be hella emotional, dropping all my dirty secrets (let’s not even talk about my current financial Hell), may even compose my fan fiction recommendations (I read a lot and live in my dreams)

This blog is officially my sound board. Welcome to my banter.

Stay tuned ✌️

First off, this has been an interesting and fun journey into blogging. I’ve learned a lot and have genuinely been excited and enjoyed the process of this class and I hope that, while it probably will not be as in depth, I will continue to utilize this blog for an outlet in the future. With that statement, lets strap ourselves in because I’m sure I will be getting deep with this topic: Music and Society.

Music and Society – Saving the World One Song at a Time

If you haven’t gathered, I’m a pretty big fan of musicians that allude or respond to societal issues with their music (or have an overall important message). I could probably run on sentence my thoughts about this topic as I have so much to talk about, but I will restrain myself (hopefully…). Also, I really think it is important to support any musician that uses their platform for something positive or thought provoking, especially music that promotes individual thinking versus the group think of our society. Sometimes performing music such as this can be considered a “career suicide” which is why it is not as common as you would think. This is also why you see societal commentary music covered in metaphors and euphemisms because some people will not see through to the real meaning.

Going through my playlist has been challenging as always when it comes to these posts. I will have two main songs for this topic but I will also have an array of my favorite examples (of different genres and locations) that I didn’t use because they need to be shout out.

Social commentary is the act of using rhetorical means to provide commentary on issues in a society. This is often done with the idea of implementing or promoting change by informing the general populace about a given problem and appealing to people’s sense of justice

Music Analysis #1 – Social Commentary

RM and Wale – Change

What’s a post without me throwing in one of my favorite artist’s (insert huge smile here). I know I have spoken of RM and his role in BTS as well as his solo music, but there is also the amazing collabs that he has participated in and “Change” with Wale (from America if you are not aware of the Rap scene) is probably one of my favorites (also it is highly underrated once you understand the meaning/concept). Wale is always quite poetic, which is always how RM writes his music as well. This was a match made in heaven in my opinion.

Instrumental and Song

The instrumental is quite funky with the old school piano riffs blending really well with the hard hitting beat. The end of the song also hits into a strange, almost dreamlike (and soothing) tune as compared to the rest of the instrumental. Overall though, the beat and melody I believe are quite simple because the purpose of the song is entirely in the lyrics. The point is to focus on that versus what the rest of what the song is offering.

Lyrics Breakdown

No translations are required for this song, as it is all in English:

[Verse 1: RM]
Oh, tell me that dark could never win the light
Oh, tell me that wrong could never win the right
Baby, tell me that we gon’ someday stop the fight
And tell me that every, everything gon’ be alright
Oh tell me who’s stupid, baby, is it me or them?
Just tell me who’s insane, baby, is it me or them?
In this crazy world after patience, could we get the pearl?
But this world, which teaches me, preaches me how to curl
Oh, fuck the school
All we got is mad teachers and some visible classes
Divided spaces, and forever-lastin’ stresses
Everybody’s mad
Kill people with fingers on Twitter
More than a gun, more than a knife
The tip of your tongue just glitter
Would the pain always win you gain? (Nah)
How could you bet? It’s damn checkin’ game (Yeah)
We’re losin’ again, homie, we losin’ too many things
What should we tell our sons?
You know that they will be the men
Like you and me

[Pre-Chorus: RM]
If hope is a taste, what’s yours?
What you eat all day? (What you eat all day?)
And if your love is a game
Are we losin’, losin’? Oh

[Chorus: Together]
World is gonna change
(ooh ooh ooh)
World is gonna change
(ooh ooh ooh)
World is gonna change
(ooh ooh ooh)
World is gonna change
(ooh ooh ooh)

[Verse 2: Wale]
Yeah, yeah, tell me what is really real?
I’m tryna buy a new Ferrari for my newest deal
Baby girl say, “The world really hate us, huh?”
Pray a lot and maybe God give you Saint Laurent
Wish that I could change the world but they hold back
When it’s time to go, the people just be mad again
And what if I could change the world with a pen and pad?

When it’s time to vote, the people turn to mannequins
Challenge that
Namjoon, I’m the man too
I’m out in Chevy Chase the teachers used to lampoon
I sing songs, haikus
Over rap tunes
High IQ
Lookin’ for a Song
Hye Kyo, hey cuuutie
Yeah
I’m tryin’ to keep it a hunnit
Got no faith in the government
That’s why we need each other, hey
Laughin’ to keep from cryin’
Folarin’s a rap monster
BTS is the ARMY
Now it’s on me
I’ma keep the piece until I see some more peace
I’ma keep it G, forever keep it low-key
Take a trip to South Korea with some DC OGs
Chiefin’ OG, I’m chiefin’ OG
Hated by alt-rights and racist police
Say, woop woop, man, 12 comin’
They make them kids really freeze, when they say, “Freeze!” Freeze!

[Chorus: Together Repeat]

[Post-Chorus: Together Repeat]

[Verse 3: Wale & RM]
Moonz, prayin’ for better days for you and I
I see progress via my daughter’s eyes
I think I think too much now and drink too much now
I numb it ’cause I don’t wanna cry
Prayin’ for better place for you and I I see some grass growin’ in winter’s eyes
I think I think too much now and drink too much now
To numb it ’cause I don’t wanna die
I believe that real friends love you to no limit (yeah)
I believe that real change lies in the mirror (yeah)
Since I was a lil’ one wasn’t ‘posed to get much status
Now they got they hands up for me like a stick up
Say, “Hands up, hands up” like a stick up
Hands up, hands up like a stick up
Since I was a lil’ one, wasn’t ‘posed to get much statusGot they hands up for me like a stick up, check it

[Outro: Wale & RM]
Take it day by day, night by night
It’s on you and me if I’m gon’ shine
Not stoppin’ day by day, night by night
It’s on you and I
Moonz and the ARMY right
(My hands up)

I love the lyrics to this song. The whole song is just picking apart the flaws that are observed in the world (in many different countries). The two rappers are from two different areas of the world (South Korea, America), but are able to relate to each other with the context of this song despite these differences. They come together preaching with hope that the world is going to change (eventually, maybe…). The chorus of the song “World is gonna change” is said with a tone of question and hope because they do not know if the world will change, but hope that it will.

The lyrics calls out racism, criticises the education systems, the stress that is pushed upon the younger generation, the toxicity of social media, the descentized individuals that are roaming the internet (trolls!), the political scene (and lack of voting, yet demand for change), etc. A Lot of this is also referenced with imagery in the MV. It’s pretty powerful if you dissect each lyric and create an understanding. This song represents the kind of rap that I enjoy- the lyric wordplay and hidden meaning is definitely my cup of tea. For reference, the third verse has a lot of personal references to Wale and RM which I will not get into as it is not relevant to the topic of this post. I just know it can be confusing reading some of the lyrics if you do not understand or know the artist (this is a good example of that). If you would like to understand you are welcome to research further as it is information any of their fans would know.

My favorite lyrics is “Kill people with fingers on Twitter
More than a gun, more than a knife” because it is so. damn. true (excuse my language). I have had a Twitter profile for a while (I never deleted it from my early college years), yet I use it rarely because there are just so many hateful people with all the time in the world on their hands that will spend time tearing people down just for the fun of it. It’s mind boggling.

Music Analysis #2 –

Green Day – American Idiot

Maybe this is a cliché song to mention, but it is one of the songs on my IPOD playlist that I know every word to that is packed with punches of social commentary. I’m a sucker for most alternative/rock/old rock AND Metal music (no judgment, sometimes a mosh pit is the greatest stress reliever). Green Day was that band that every young tween started out listening to when I was in middle school. I was just one of the fortunate ones that didn’t stop listening when I “fell from the phase” (because I really didn’t fall).

Instrumental

American Idiot is written in the key of A major and has four chords. The instrumental is what you considered the standard rock band of drums, guitar, bass and vocals. There is also a instrumental moment (break?) within the song that I would honestly describe as head banging. The only thing I do not like about the song is its lack of diversity with lyrics, but I also understand the irony in the repetitiveness. It’s almost robotic or “controlled” which plays into the message of the song.

Lyrics Breakdown

[Verse 1]
Don’t wanna be an American idiot
Don’t want a nation under the new mania
And can you hear the sound of hysteria?
The subliminal mind-fuck America

[Chorus]
Welcome to a new kind of tension
All across the alien nation
Where everything isn’t meant to be okay
Television dreams of tomorrow
We’re not the ones who’re meant to follow
For that’s enough to argue

[Verse 2]
Well, maybe I’m the faggot, America
I’m not a part of a redneck agenda
Now everybody do the propaganda
And sing along to the age of paranoia

[Chorus]
Welcome to a new kind of tension
All across the alien nation
Where everything isn’t meant to be okay
Television dreams of tomorrow
We’re not the ones who’re meant to follow
For that’s enough to argue

[Instrumental Break]

[Verse 3]
Don’t wanna be an American idiot
One nation controlled by the media
Information age of hysteria
It’s calling out to idiot America

[Chorus]
Welcome to a new kind of tension
All across the alien nation
Where everything isn’t meant to be okay
Television dreams of tomorrow
We’re not the ones who’re meant to follow
For that’s enough to argue

I honestly believe this song (and it’s lyrics) continues to become more and more relevant as time goes on in America. The lyrics talk about mass media and the orchestrated paranoia and idiocy among the public of America due to the information being reported. The song focuses on the point of American politics, “group-think” of a nation, and the stereotypes and labels that follows at every corner. It is funny how accurate this song is in describing America in the present because this song was released in 2004.

Honorable Mentions- Because I’m Weak and I Love Music that has Meaning:

Solo de Mí -( Bad Bunny, 2018) – When I was younger (started at 10) and learning Spanish, I started by music and movies (captions to no captions). I’ve become a fan of latin music since. This song is not in English, so unless you know Spanish, you will have to look up the lyrics as there are no captions. I really have enjoyed Bad Bunny, he is always facing controversial topics head on with no cares for the backlash.

This is America (Childish Gambino, 2018) – Another favorite of mine. As, I’ve stated before, I am a fan of poetic rap and this song really takes the icing. Its also shocking for new viewers and will strike your senses. Because it is fairly new and well known song, I decided not to do an analysis even though this MV and song is perfect for this topic.

(The dreaded KPOP!)

Spring Day (BTS, 2016) – I already spoke on this song in my last post, but if you read my analysis you will understand why I added this onto my list for this topic.

Baepsae (BTS, 2015) – Another song (of many) that BTS has created this time criticising the youth and their desensitization towards money and always having to have the best no matter the cost.

Same Love– (Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, 2012)

Imagine– (John Lennon, 1971)

Sing – (My Chemical Romance, 2010)

Us and Them – (Pink Floyd, 1973)

Works Cited

Frith, S. (2019, October 24). Rock as a reflection of social and cultural change. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/art/rock-music/Rock-as-a-reflection-of-social-and-cultural-changeLakin, G. (2017, September 14).

Standing Next to Everyman: Social Commentary and Classic Rock Music. Retrieved from https://entropymag.org/standing-next-to-everyman-social-commentary-and-classic-rock-music/Solá-Santiago, F. (2018, December 28).

Bad Bunny’s Recent Attention to Puerto Rican Politics Is the Sign of an Artistic Evolution. Retrieved from https://remezcla.com/features/music/bad-bunny-politics-puerto-rico/

The history of American protest music, from “Yankee Doodle” to Kendrick Lamar – Vox. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://nowcomment.com/documents/167180

I said in the beginning of writing this blog that I am a huge fan of K-POP and that I would revisit this genre at a later time. Well, now is the time. Strap yourself in, because I am 100% positive this will be a long post.

My History with K-POP

I’ve had the opportunity to write with the topics presented with this class, but I didn’t want everyone to have the assumption that all I listen to is K-POP (because it’s just not true). Most people have this assumption though because I speak so highly of the groups that I listen to. I know every word of their songs when they come on while I’m in the car or at work (in Korean and its meaning) and I know a tremendous amount of information about the groups and their members and what they present to the world.

But I’m going to be real here, yes, I am major connoisseur of K-POP, but I really only so far have had a tremendous love for two bands: BTS and Seventeen. I will be further diving into BTS for this post and I will also be explaining why I am confined to a couple of groups in my appreciation of K-POP as a genre (I will not be talking about them, but don’t be afraid to check out Seventeen! They are a younger group then BTS and I became a fan late 2016-after BTS).

Also, I want to be very clear. There are intense fan wars/haters/trolls that are a huge part of K-POP. I do not condone or encourage “fans” that act this way nor do I participate in these trends. It’s childish, petty and gives further fuel to the people who dislike K-POP and the fandoms. I tend to just ignore rather then engage as a lot of these “fans” are not really fans but people who want to give a bad name to whichever group. Yeah, people really do have that much time on their hands and it’s…well, it’s complicated…

Now, I’ve casually listened to K-POP since 2008 and appreciated the glam, bright tones, and “hype” that the songs have brought. I’ve enjoyed the likes of Big Bang, and DBSK in the beginning and CLC, Twice and BlackPink in the last few years(and I have had a few of their songs on my work-out playlist), but I always never jumped into the full love and enjoyment aspect of K-POP until 2015.

2008 had me loving the music of BigBang and DBSK, then falling out of love and casually listening here and there as I discovered the darker side of K-POP. Music that I love and become fascinating/ passionate about, I will research more about it and I couldn’t fully support companies that encouraged extreme dieting, dating bans, little to no pay, no personal creativity and basically slavery in every aspect. Yes, the music is a bop, but treating a person like dirt (or like a slave of entertainment) was just not something I could support. So I tended to research every group that presented talent and then kind of fell to the wayside depending on what I discovered. Two of the major entertainment companies of South Korea, SM and YG, had a lot of greed and distorted ideals when I first looked into them, and that ruled out ALOT of groups. Now don’t get me wrong, I do think the groups they managed had a lot of talent, but I could not support them in good conscience. At the time, I could not understand why people would put themselves through such trials and tribulations to become a KPOP Idol.

Bangtan Sonyeondan (BTS)

2015 comes around and I am still looking at new releases here or there, but tend to forget about K-POP as new and exciting until I happen upon a video by BTS called ‘I Need You’. It is fascinating, catchy but also dark and surprisingly cinematic for a music video.

Forewarning:This video has graphic and violent scenes at the 4:00-4:40 mark and reference to such scenes afterward.

From this video, I continued to look into BTS and suddenly I am following (as the years continue), the most intricate storyline I have experienced in a long time (next to Harry Potter haha). This music video was part of a string of videos that is contained within a bigger storyline or universe called the ‘HYYH Series’ or the ‘Most Beautiful Moment In Life’ Trilogy. This storyline has continued until 2019. Because of how intense, in depth and long this series is, I will not be completing a musical analysis of any music videos involved (which is a lot). I do encourage that everyone looks into it though. If you are ready to fall into a rabbit hole and have a couple days or weekends to commit. Here is a list of the videos (In Order) if you would like to have an interesting binge for the weekend:

‘I NEED U‘ Official MV (2015)

‘I NEED U‘ Official MV (Original ver.) (2015) (WARNING-HAS GRAPHIC/VIOLENT SCENES 4:00-4:40)

화양연화 on stage : prologue (2015)

‘RUN’ Official MV (2015)

‘I NEED U (Japanese Ver.)‘ Official MV (2015)

‘RUN -Japanese Ver.-‘ Official MV (2016)

‘EPILOGUE : Young Forever’ MV (2016)

WINGS Short Film #1 Begin (2016)

WINGS Short Film #2 LIE (2016)

WINGS Short Film #3 STIGMA (2016)

WINGS Short Film #4 FIRST LOVE (2016)

WINGS Short Film #5 REFLECTION (2016)

WINGS Short Film #6 MAMA (2016)

WINGS Short Film #7 AWAKE (2016)

‘피 땀 눈물 (Blood Sweat & Tears)’ Official MV (2017)

‘血、汗、涙 -Japanese Ver.-‘ Official MV (2017)

LOVE YOURSELF Highlight Reel ‘起’ (2017) #1 #2 #3 #4

‘Euphoria‘ : Theme of LOVE YOURSELF 起 Wonder‘ (2018)

‘FAKE LOVE’ Official Teaser 1 (2018)

‘FAKE LOVE’ Official MV (2018)

‘FAKE LOVE’ Official MV (Extended ver.) (2018)

LOVE YOURSELF 結 Answer ‘Epiphany’ Comeback Trailer (2018) . – One of my favorites, also an amazing song to see live. There is something amazing about 60,000 people singing this song all together- I was able to experience it in 2018.

There are also notes and a webtoon (2019-2020) that further explains the Bangtan Universe which is listed here: https://bts.fandom.com/wiki/BTS_Universe. I would be interested to know of any analysis new or casual fans have.

Wow….putting this list together reminds me of how long I’ve followed them. The years really do fly when you are having fun. There are subtitles on each video, just remember to put them on-If you do decide to watch them.

My favorite thing has always been introducing the story and seeing what people have concluded as they watched. It has always been a different conclusion which makes it all the more fun.

A Brief History of BTS

BTS is a seven member group (started in 2010) that officially debuted June 13th, 2013 with the song ‘No More Dream‘. This song had the underlying message of following your own dreams rather then giving into societal expectations. This was quite poignant to their korean fans as South Korean youth culture revolves largely around the country’s emphasis on education. BTS continued with their political and societal messages as they continued creating music.

The group had minor support within their own country (entertainment industry) and enticed more disdain then anything. This is not because they lacked talent, but because their company lacked reputation and money. It’s ridiculous, but at the time there was (and kind of still is) a hierarchy of entertainment companies and the main three were:YG, SM and JYP. BTS was founded by BigHit Entertainment, a smaller and less know company. They were not given the same attention that groups were provided that came from the main three companies and they were cut from broadcasts, dropped from performances and treated terribly by other celebrities and broadcast companies due to this knowledge.

BTS, as I discovered, is quite different from what I had understood of K-POP. These men were considered partners within their company and had artistic rights to every song that was performed by either composition or production. They had no diet or dating ban and were provided with the money they earned. As time went on, the company concluded its mission statement as being ‘Music and Artist for Healing’. The goal was to create, produce and perform music that healed the soul and brought fruition to the concept of an individual’s life. Beautiful huh?

The Actual Analysis

It’s hard to choose (like always) the song I will provide an analysis of, but I think a music analysis of BTS ‘Spring Day‘ (stats under the video link below) will provide how deep this group can be with their music. There is a lot that can be understood from this video with the lyrics, the choreography and the cinematography. It is thought (DISCLAIMER-not proven) to be about the national Sewol Ferry Tragedy. I truly believe this to be true as there are just too many coincidences within the video to not believe it. This has not and most likely will never be proven due to the strict Korean government.

Long story short – a ferry containing 476 individuals (most of them being high school students) sunk off the coast of Jeju Island on April 2014. 304 individuals (250 of them students) died as the result of this ferry sinking. The tragedy of this being that the 176 survivors were rescued by commercial fisherman, not the Korean coast guard (who arrived too late) nor international assistance (who were turned away). The captain and staff of the ship informed everyone to stay in their place (which ultimately condemned them to death) while they fled the ship. The captain and staff were charged with murder and abandoning of ship in 2014. This is condensed, but there is a documentary on Youtube that talks about this and also shows videos recorded by students before their death (forewarning if you would like to seek it out).

English Lyrics

[Verse 1: RM, J-Hope]
Miss you
Saying this makes me miss you even more
Miss you
Even though I’m looking at your photo
Time’s so cruel, I hate us
Seeing each other for once is now so hard between us

[Verse 2: RM]
It’s all winter here, even in August
My heart is running on the time
Alone on the Snowpiercer
Wanna get to the other side of the earth, holding your hand
Wanna put an end to this winter
How much longing should we see snowing down
To have the days of spring, Friend

[Verse 3: Jimin, V]
Like the tiny dust, tiny dust floating in the air
Will I get to you a little faster
If I was the snow in the air

[Pre-Chorus 1: Jungkook, V]
Snowflakes fall down
And get farther away little by little
I miss you (I miss you)
I miss you (I miss you)
How long do I have to wait
And how many sleepless nights do I have to spend
To see you (to see you)
To meet you (to meet you)

[Chorus: Jungkook, Jin, J-Hope]
Passing by the edge of the cold winter
Until the days of spring
Until the days of flower blossoms
Please stay, please stay there a little longer

[Verse 4: Suga, Jimin]
Is it you who changed (Is it you who changed)
Or is it me (Or is it me)
I hate this moment, this time flowing by
We are changed you know
Just like everyone you know

[Verse 5: Suga, Jimin]
Yes I hate you, you left me
But I never stopped thinking about you, not even a day
Honestly I miss you, but I’ll erase you
‘Cause it hurts less than to blame you

[Verse 6: Jin, Jimin]
I try to exhale you in pain
Like smoke, like white smoke
I say that I’ll erase you
But I can’t really let you go yet

[Pre-Chorus 1: Jungkook, V]
Snowflakes fall down
And get farther away little by little
I miss you (I miss you)
I miss you (I miss you)
How long do I have to wait
And how many sleepless nights do I have to spend
To see you (to see you)
To meet you (to meet you)

[Bridge: V, Jungkook]
You know it all
You’re my best friend
The morning will come again
No darkness, no season is eternal

[Pre-Chorus 2: Jimin, Jungkook, V]
Maybe it’s cherry blossoms
And this winter will be over
I miss you (I miss you)
I miss you (I miss you)
Wait a little bit, just a few more nights
I’ll be there to see you (I’ll go there to meet you)
I’ll come for you (I’ll come for you)

[Chorus: Jungkook, J-Hope, Jin ]
Passing by the edge of the cold winter
Until the days of spring
Until the days of flower blossoms
Please stay, please stay there a little longer

Analysis of the Video, Music, and Lyrics

The video I believe represents the survivors of a tragedy. The beginning of the video showcases an individual (Taehyung) listening to the train tracks. This could be represented as an individual who is feeling survivors guilt and who is suicidal or as an individual who is nostalgic and listening to the “memory of travel”. This progresses to scenes with individuals deep in thought or remembering.

The scene changes to an individual (RM) in a train carriage alone. He sings: ‘Miss you
Saying this makes me miss you even more
Miss you
Even though I’m looking at your photo.

Notice that he has abandoned suitcases around him. This is thought to be a representation of travelers who will never return for their belongings as they are unable.

‘Alone on the Snowpiercer
Wanna get to the other side of the earth, holding your hand
Wanna put an end to this winter
How much longing should we see snowing down’

These lyrics are reference of the movie Snowpiercer (10/10-also stars Chris Evans if anyone cares) which is directed by Korean director Joon-Ho Bong (Who is also the director of Parasite and just recently won best director at the Oscars). The movie synopsis is that of a civilization that exists entirely on a train that is a representation of human society that many people perceive it to be: Upper Class (the front of the train) and Regular or “lower class” (the tail of the train).

The Snowpiercer reference is thought to embody South Korea’s expectation that citizens are to follow orders even if it means to be oppressed. This is also thought to be a reference to the individuals on the Sewol ferry that were told to stay where they are no matter what happens.

The music video continues forth with RM heading forth to seek justice (going towards the front of the train) which is a main theme of the movie Snowpiercer.

The next scene in the MV is RM going into a motel called ‘Omelas’. There is a sign on the front that states ‘No Vacancy’. ‘Omelas’ is the name of a fictional town from a book called ‘The Ones Who Walk Away From Omelas‘. The whole story is about a utopian society whose survival is dependent on the suffering of a child which provides to the theme that happiness is successful upon another’s suffering. There are individuals who ignore the suffering to continue to stay happy (ignorance is bliss) and there are those who walk away from it. Omela’s is full of people which is why the sign in the MV says ‘No Vacancy’ on the motel. I will not get into it to much, but there is a lot of conspiracy regarding the Sewol tragedy and the Korean government which is why the reference to ‘Omelas’ is so interesting.

The next scene of the MV has RM continuing forth on the train and coming upon a scene that is similar representation (once again) of the movie Snowpiercer. In the movie, once the main character has reached the middle of the train, he is attacked and has the attempt of others thwarting him from continuing forth on his goal. The MV scene is similar in as sense as it look like a celebration at first glance but in reality RM is literally having items thrown at him as if to stop him from continuing.

‘Is it you who changed (Is it you who changed)
Or is it me (Or is it me)
I hate this moment, this time flowing by
We are changed you know
Just like everyone you know’

These lyrics are representation of the next scene which shows all the band members of BTS running up a spiral staircase with another member (Jin) at the bottom looking up. This is thought to be representation of the deceased watching their friends and family continue to grow up and onward with their life while they are stagnant.

The following scene shows another member of the group (JK) standing in front of a rusty merry-go round which is thought to be the representation of lost innocence/childhood. There are continued scenes of each member of the group continuing forth with life as normal before coming back to a scene of the group looking lost and depressed as they realize that they cannot fill the void that they are feeling.

The scene continues into a laundry room (connected to the motel) that shows what looks to be a fairly normal scene, but upon zooming in, you can see the stickers on the laundry machines that say “Don’t Forget”. Now, as I’ve said this MV is only thought to be theorized to be about the Sewol tragedy, but this scene really struck as Korean Citizens (and the families of the deceased) were encouraged to move on from the national tragedy, or continue forth but almost with the expectation to forget.

The next scene shows the members of BTS on a mountain of clothes, which is quite similar to an art installation from 2010 that was created by Christian Boltanski. This art piece was a 40 foot tall mountain of clothes that when a piece of clothing was added, it symbolically represented the soul of someone lost and their progression into a “higher place”.

In the MV, scenes progress forward with BTS members “waking up” and realizing they need to preserve and seek justice. One scene that really embodies this, is the scene of JK in front of the rusty merry-go round. One major thing to notice are the many yellow ribbons that are tied to the merry- go round.  Yellow ribbons became a prevalent symbol in South Korea, its significance evolving from hopes of return and mourning to activism in accordance with the Sewol Ferry Tragedy. The merry go-round that had been rusty and dead, suddenly springs to life with faceless people running in action around it. JK stops standing and suddenly joins these people.

The next scenes you see JK following in the same footsteps of RM to seek justice which he finds that he does not have to did it alone once everyone joins him. This is a representation of another era of BTS called the ‘You Never Walk Alone‘ Era….. Hopefully no one is confused as of yet (It really is indepth and a never ending circulation of symbolism in ALL of their creations). The MV ends with the group realizing there is life outside of the train (outside of oppression) which is a correlated scene to Snowpiercer once again where one of the characters realizes that it is safe to leave the train (that its not subzero) when he sees a snowflake.

‘Snowflakes fall down
And get farther away little by little’

The choreography of the song also ties into the theory that was presented above as you can see the representation of a ship and also the motions of a traveler in their choreography.

The music is an electronic sound, combined with piano. The lyrics are a combination of rap and vocal which are combined together seamlessly (as always with BTS). It’s really quite beautiful and evokes a definite emotional response. I think I have used ‘Gut Wrenching’ as a description of my feelings a lot in my posts, but I tend to gravitate towards songs that make me feel this way, so it’s pretty accurate.  

The melody is simple but I think it is perfect when combined with the breathy and stretched vocals. The volume and tempo is also played with throughout the song to enunciate emotion when needed. I also need to talk about the hook (or bridge) of the song. I do not see it often enough but the hook of this song is fulfilled by the groups vocal baritone (Taehyung) and oh man is it beautiful. He has a soulful voice, that is the only way I can describe it (His voice does not match his face either haha). Lastly, the ending instrumentals with minimal harmonized vocals ALWAYS gets me choked up.

Random, but I feel like I need to throw in here that ‘Spring Day‘ has now spent 130 weeks on the weekly chart of Korea’s largest music site and is the longest maintained song on record since it released in 2017.

Thanks to anyone who read through this entire post and I hope you will broaden your mind and look past stereotypes that are depicted upon K-POP. While there is truth in a lot of these stereotypes, it’s not the truth for every group or company that falls under the genre.

Works Cited

Genius English Translations – BTS – 봄날 (Spring Day) (English Translation). (2017, February 13). Retrieved from https://genius.com/Genius-english-translations-bts-spring-day-english-translation-lyrics

Herman, T. (2018, May 7). BTS Song Lyrics: A Commentary on South Korean Society. Retrieved from https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/k-town/8098832/bts-lyrics-social-commentary-political

Sinking of MV Sewol. (2020, April 8). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sinking_of_MV_Sewol

Yellow Ribbon Campaign and Sewol Ferry Protest Movement. (2020, January 29). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yellow_Ribbon_Campaign_and_Sewol_Ferry_Protest_Movement

Fable. (2017, May 25). “Spring Day” – YNWA Musical Analysis: ARMY’s Amino. Retrieved from https://aminoapps.com/c/btsarmy/page/blog/spring-day-ynwa-musical-analysis/KW8P_qWbcMuXDMzw6pNblEjXVKaQbKmMlj

BTS Spring Day MV EXPLAINED – YouTube. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tye1ONFeKis

Le Guin, U. K. (1996). The Ones Who Walk Away From Omelas. Hove, South Aust.: Townsend School.

This was a difficult choice as there are many games and movies that I genuinely enjoy because of their soundtrack. I had to choose Studio Ghibli as my topic as I am always brought into the story emotionally when the music is added to the scenes being viewed.

Company Background Information

Studio Ghibli is a Japanese animation film studio best known for their feature films but they also have a hand in video games, television, and short films. They were founded June 15th, 1985 and have been rewarded with many awards throughout the years for their animation and their music. They were awarded Best Soundtrack at the Japanese Academy Awards a total of seven times, which I believe is deserved as the music compositions are placed perfectly to evoke the emotion that is being described in whichever scene that is presented.

The company has a team of directors, screenwriters, musical directors and producers, but my favorite screenwriter and director of the company is Hayao Miyazaki. I’ve seen and loved every animated movie that he has created (and am genuinely disappointed that he may not be doing more because of his age). It was at the top of my list when I traveled to Japan to see the Studio Ghibli museum because of my obsession (it’s 100% worth a stop if you are ever taking a trip to the country).

Miyazaki creates beautiful, fantastical, sometimes heart wrenching stories, that always provide multiple life lesson’s to the viewer. He brings to life these amazing worlds with characters that are easy to relate to (even the antagonists).

Alongside Hayo Miyazaki, my favorite Music Director is Joe Hisaishi. They have worked together on multiple animated films such a as Castle in the Sky (my first ever Ghibli experience when I was seven!), Kiki’s Delivery Service, Howl’s Moving Castle and Princess Monoke. My favorite animated movie that has been created by Hayo Miyazaki is Spirited Away. Have you ever just experienced a movie in real-time and had the realization that you were watching a masterpiece spun from someones imagination? Yeah, well that is how I feel about this movie… I do not even know how to explain it, but the whole story and its relation of the spirit world to the human world and the connection between both worlds is pure genius. It presents lessons of friendship, greed, love, fear, self-realization, environmental awareness….I could go on. One thing I need to highlight about the story is the beauty in how the spirits are connected to the human world. For example, there is a river spirit (in the form of a dragon) that happens to be sick and transformed into a form that is not a dragon (almost disfigured). You discover that the spirit is sick because of the pollution that has occurred in the human world to the river that the spirit is connected and the spirits true form is revealed once all the pollution is purged.

Quick Movie Synapses

The film of Spirited Away follows the young heroine of Chihiro (eventually renamed Sen throughout the movie as she loses her real name-names are powerful). She has been reluctantly pulled away from her friends and old school as her family decides to move to a new home. They end up lost on the journey to their new home, appearing at what seems to be an abandoned theme park that is actually a Japanese Bathhouse intended for Spirits. Walking through the theme park, her parents find themselves enticed by food that is available despite there being no one around. Chihiro feels the situation is off and does not participate in the food and eventually she witnesses the transformation of her parents into pigs (due to their greed). Chihiro becomes “spirited away” as she is unable to return to the entrance of theme park as the night occurs and the spirits appear. Chihiro embarks on an adventure, meeting many spirits along the way, to return her parents to their human selves and their family as a whole to the human world.

Soundtrack

The entire soundtrack of Spirited Away is *chefs kiss*. The album, originally released in 2001 originating in Japan, is composed by, arranged, produced, performed and conducted by Joe Hisaishi. The album consists of songs that play really well into each other. and explains the story of the movie fairly well without having the aide of a visual. The instrumentals also showcases East Asian instruments as a centerfold and is performed by the New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra and multiple featured artists.

One of my favorite on the album is One Summer Day , but my focus for this post will be on Itsumo Nando Demo, translated to Always with me. Itsumo Nando Demo, sang and performed with the aide of a lyre by Yumi Kimura, is the closing song to the movie. I ultimately chose this song as it was the inspiration for Miyuzaki to create Spirited Away (along with the memories of his friends). In behind the scenes of the movie, there are clips of Miyuzaki listening to the song trying to match where the music will be placed in the scene.

Role of the Song

As it is the closing song of the movie, it provides the relief and hopefulness with a feeling of sadness that the viewer is experiencing as the movie ends. These feelings embody the fact that Chihiro successfully makes it home with her parents yet she is leaving her newfound friends behind that she may never see again. There is indication that she may also forget (though that is not proven or confirmed), but the thought that she may forget with this song playing upon the scene is kind of gut-wrenching.

Message

The message of the song I think is explained by one lyric:

‘Though the road is long, lonely and the end far away, out of sight /I can, with these arms, embrace the light’

While the English translation provides a lot of hidden meanings I really think the message of the song is about the journey of life, and that even with all the emotions throughout the lifetime (negative and positive) you will make it through all the trials that life throws your way and ultimately have peace and understanding at the end of your life.

My Opinion

The song itself is quite unique (especially with the use of the vocals and the Lyre). The melody of the song is played in the key of F major with the downbeat progressing up through E-C. Time is 3/4. When I first heard the song, it reminded me of a lullaby which when you think about it, as the song is the closing song of the movie, a lullaby is also a song that is used to end the day (or the wake cycle). I always find myself sighing in relief when I hear the song as it has the feeling that everything is done, everything is okay and now we can move forward (wherever that may be).

Final Message

This is a must watch movie, if you haven’t please do so! Don’t psych yourself out because its an animated movie. Also, if you are curious the entire soundtrack is on Itunes, you will not regret it.

References

Dazed. (2020, January 21). Joe Hisaishi: the genius composer who gave Studio Ghibli its sound. Retrieved from https://www.dazeddigital.com/music/article/47580/1/joe-hisaishi-composer-music-of-studio-ghibli

Harwell, K. (n.d.). The Music of Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli. Retrieved from https://radio.wosu.org/post/music-miyazaki-and-studio-ghibli#stream/0

Miyazaki’s Spirited Away. DVD. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Burbank, CA: Buena Vista Home Entertainment, Inc., 2001. Bonus Features: Nippon Television Special.

Studio Ghibli. (2020, March 22). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Studio_Ghibli

When I think of music in India, I always go immediately to Bollywood (or music in films of India). But when researching, there is more depth into their entire market of music then I initially had realized. There is quite a lot of information and a broad topic of genres in Indian music. As I was expecting Bollywood music and know of its existence, I am going to go more into the classical genre of Indian music as I know nothing.

When the 16th century came about, the division between the north and south of India became more prominently known. Upon the separation came two different scenes in Indian classical music: Hindustani (North Indian) Instrumental and Karnatic Instrumental (South Indian).

Hindustani Instrumental

The most common instruments in Hinustani is the sitar, the bansuri (bamboo flute), and the thesarod. There are four forms: Dhrupad, Khyal, Tarana and Thumri. Dhrupad is the form that refers to the more ancient of the Hindustani music (what it started as) that is described in Hindu text. From Dhrupad, it evolved into Khyal, which translates to “imagination” and is considered the more modern music of Hindustani. Hindustani is considered to be based on folk tunes. Tarana is classical vocal music that has a repeated fast and repetitive melody. Thumri, translated to “to walk with dancing steps so as to make the ankle-bells tinkle” is the form of Hindustani music that is connected to dance.

While Hindustani music has a lot of amazing instruments, such as the sitar and bansuri (bamboo flute), I chose to example a song that recreates all those instruments in the form of a synthesizer. To be fair, I was perusing through a “Hindustani Classic Playlist” on Gaana (similar to spotify) and this was one of the top favorites that evoked intense emotions. The song below is Raga Lalit composed and performed by Charanjit Singh in 1982. The song has no vocals and was created with three electronic synthesizers. When I researched more into the song, it is described as “traditional Hindustani music on acid”. It was nice in the beginning and slowly merged into just plain…. adrenaline. I do not think I could listen to this on a daily basis. It actually had me on edge and feeling like I should be running, or moving in fast forward (if that makes sense). If I had to compare it to another song in terms of how it made me feel, it would be the popular Chopsticks by Euphemia Allen.

Carnatic Instrumental

The most common instruments featured in Carnatic music is thenagaswaram (shawm), thetavil (barrel drum) and the Veena. Carnatic music was considered at one point the “musical language” of India. The music has a long history, being inspired from faith and Hinduism, and having text recordings from as far back to 4000 and 1000 BC.Concerts of Carnatic Instrumental are typically composed of a soloist (vocal or instrumental) with melodic and rhythmic accompaniment. Percussionist, vocalists and violinists are a common feature.

The video below really showcases the Veena in all its glory with accompaniment of the thetavil. This performance (performed 12/13/2007) by Punya Srinivas of Manayala Kinchara (composer: Saint Thyagaraja) is mind-blowing. As a violinist (and a dabbler of the guitar), I am internally wincing. She has to have calluses to make it through this performance so flawlessly, because she is quick and precise. The instruments play well together, but the Veena has a sort of “twang” that I really enjoy. The song is inviting and playful. Everybody should check this video, and her channel, out. In comparison to the Hindustani song (and quite a few others that I sampled), I could listen to this instrumental on repeat with satisfaction.

Works Cited

A Brief History of Indian Music, http://www.scaruffi.com/history/indian.html.

“Instruments.” Details – India Instruments, http://www.india-instruments.com/various-string-instrument-details/saraswati-veena.html.

“Indian Classical Music.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 25 Feb. 2020, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_classical_music.

“Indian Music.” Indian Music – Genres, History & Evolution, http://www.culturalindia.net/indian-music/.

For this post I will be looking further into electronic music through the decades. Now to be completely honest, I chose this topic because it’s not a favorite of mine. I was reading through the options and I seriously cringed when I came across this choice, which naturally made me want look more into the topic. Maybe I will find myself pleasantly surprised. Don’t get me wrong, I have a few electronic songs that are guilty pleasures, but it’s not what I would sit down and put on just to listen for the sake of listening.

History and Facts

Electronic music is a broad title for a huge grouping of music, such as dubstep, trance, disco, etc. Electronic music, while prevalently thought to be a product of the 21st century, has been around for more than 50 years. The 1980s really hit on synth electronic music, and the 1990s was heavy on dance electronic before there was a progression into the 2000’s with electronic dance music.

Electronic Music Progression

I’ve picked different electronic music from the last 40 years to really show the progression. First, Just Can’t Get Enough by Depiche from the year 1981. This song utilizes the synth-pop sound for their “instrumental” with the use of keyboard and vocals. It’s quite upbeat, but has a one note tone at the same time. This song was one of the pioneers of electronic music. Not the first by a long shot, but definitely a song that helped with the hype of electronic music. Personally, not my favorite song, but my mother has this on her personal playlist which is why I thought to include it.

Next is Hung Up by Madonna from 2009. the musical inspiration for the idea of this song was 1980’s dance pop, which you can definitely tell when listening to the inclusion of the dance beats with the synth. This is quite different from Just Can’t Get Enough, with more of a groove/dance feel with the electronic music.

Last, I went with 2019 LoneWolf by Zomboy. This song genre is more commonly known as dubstep, a more recently popular form of electronic music that has risen in the last 15 year. This song has a more gritty version of the synth as compared to the last two songs, with beat drops and a more poignant electronic tone. I like songs like this only because it gives you almost a feel of being on a rollercoaster.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6FBfAQ-NDE&feature=share

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDwb9jOVRtU&feature=share

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdzWUEjffQ4&feature=share

While I’m not a huge fan of most electronic music from before the 80s/90s, I do enjoy quite a lot of dubstep and EDM. They remind me of my love for alternative/rock music with the hard beats, beat drops and sometimes head-banging moments.

Hi Everyone! To start off this blog, I swear that I actually listen to upbeat music. As this is a musical analysis, it’s easier and more exciting to choose a song that is significant and lyrically/musically deeper and I have resonated with a lot of music over my life that is a little bit darker then the norm. So this is why I chose Blue October’s, ‘Hate Me’ for this week’s assignment. Also, to everyone not wanting to read about KPOP again, you’re welcome. I was so close to doing a musical analysis on a KPOP song again just for laughs and to show the variety of genres within such a category, but I withheld the temptation (as much as I was cackling about it).

During my quick reminder/run through of the lyrics online, I noticed a lot of hate comments about this song. Which I understand why this response from the audience on an extremely deep level. While I understand that the lyrics provided a lot of disgust, I sympathise quite a lot with the artist and what he is saying. It is a well known fact (or maybe not…) that the lead singer, Justin Furstenfeld, of Blue October struggles with bipolar disorder and drug addiction. He is a songwriter/singer “known for pouring the most uncomfortable moments of his private life into his lyrics.”. I appreciate the honesty, bluntness and emotion that he pours into his music. Its real and definitely evokes emotion from me when I listen to it.

WHY I RELATE:

I worked in mental health and drug counseling for ten years and it wasn’t easy. Listening to people’s inner most thoughts can be shocking and draining, but I always appreciated the vulnerability some people could willingly show just to obtain a release and to have someone just listen. This is one of the many reasons why I love this song. The other reason is that it is extremely relatable. I grew up with five family members that presented young with Bipolar, with a few of them furthering their problems with drug addiction. Both illnesses it can definitely cause quite a lot of whiplash to surrounding family. Sometimes the only thing you can do is just be as supportive as you can be while trying to stay positive.

Lyrics, Pitch, Melody, Beat and Tempo

The intro of the song starts off with a recording from his mother asking how he is doing and that she had not heard from him in a while. She further expresses her concern wondering about his medication but is overall quite positive despite her concern for him. This is incorporated over the instrumental and fully blends into the start of the song.

In the song, the singer is using metaphorical phrases throughout the lyrics to explain his feelings to the listener. It’s also fascinating to hear the correlation of such morbid thoughts to a mental illness.

An example of the metaphors present in these lyrics: ‘I have to block out thoughts of you so I don’t lose my head;They’re crawling like a cockroach leaving babies in my bed;Dropping little reels of tape to remind me that I’m alone;Playing movies in my head that make a porno feel like home’

The beat and tempo of the song is slowly steady, providing an additional support on the emotional aspect of the song. The pitch fluctuates from the main chorus (of higher and emotional) to the lyrics outside of the chorus where the singer sounds slightly more tempered, almost like he is reading his thoughts to an audience. The instrumental incorporates drums, guitar, bass, violin and piano into the melody. I love the emotion that is evoked with the rawness of the lead singers vocals with the melody. My favorite part is when the violin comes into play at the end of the song followed by the piano. It really drives the point of the song home. The ending of the song always makes my stomach drop because its a repeated sequence of his mother saying ‘Hey Justin’ morphing almost grotesquely. Overall, I think this song is brilliant and it is one of my top favorites.

Carlosramirez. (2011, June 23). Blue October’s Justin Furstenfeld on His Bi-Polar Disorder and Divorce. Retrieved from https://noisecreep.com/blue-october-justin-furstenfeld-on-his-bi-polar-disorder-and-d/

Blue October – Hate Me. (2006, January 24). Retrieved from https://genius.com/Blue-october-hate-me-lyrics