Course Review

As the the semester comes to close, I have been asked to reflect back on my experiences in my courses. For this class I think the most valuable part was a lot of the readings on writing technique like how to form an argument, how to respond to sources, how to introduce a thesis, etc. One strategy that has been specifically helpful has been the They Say/ I Say strategy. I now know that I can never just leave a quote or source without my own commentary, because that is what makes my argument and my paper my own and how I add my opinion. I plan on continuing to work on my repetitiveness and making my work more concise.

Reflections on Beyonce as an artist

The moment we were asked to chose an artist in the beginning of the semester, Beyonce Knowles was the first to come to mind. For years, I have admired her not only as an artist but as a person as well. I think she epitomizes class, womanhood, and independence. Not to mention, I am obsessed with all of her albums and tracks. I think she is a one of a kind artist that truly comes around once a generation. After focusing on her this entire semester, this mindset has not changed and in fact, it was strengthened. I also enjoyed researching Beyonce and reading about her history, influences, etc. Not to mention, I would find any excuse to jam out to a Beyonce single! If anything, I have more respect for Knowles as an artist because I learned more about her background, the struggle she had becoming a single artist, and all the influences and messages behind her music. I know understand all the thought and artistry that goes into her songs, album covers, music videos, performances and so much more. I have been able to see just how large her impact on the entertainment industry is and her impact on our culture. My respect for Beyonce Knowles has only increased and I could not have asked for a more enjoyable artist to research this semester.

Remediating

Remediating this album review is a harder task than expected. Since we have such creative leeway with it, it is difficult to find the best medium to express my album and my argument. Originally, I spoke about making a video to capture the dances of Beyonce because that is a topic that is relevant to the artist. However, now I am considering making a split infographic to highlight to two separate sides of Beyonce that she expresses through this album, and how they come together to create the real Beyonce, the figure we see. I want to highlight the dual nature of the album and show all the different aspects that make Beyonce the icon she is. However, it is not planned out or as far along as I hope, so if you are reading this and have suggestions- feel free to comment!

After researching Beyonce

Now that I have spent the past month researching Beyonce and the pop music industry, I think it is safe to say I know all the ins and outs, the marketing techniques, the strategies. As for my next arguments on Beyonce's work, I would have to say her dancing. That is one aspect I have not yet touched on, and how certain songs showcase different dance aspects. For example on her last album "I Am... Sasha Fierce" I did not touch upon the "Single Ladies" dance craze that occurred. Her moves prove that she really is a triple threat which is why she is such a power house celebrity and an icon in pop culture. People look to her for her dance moves, her music, and her acting.
As for the best media to make this argument would most likely be a video combining the different clips of Beyonce busting a movie whether it is in concert or music video. At least for me, Knowles is never fiercer than when she is dancing. I think that would be an interesting topic to explore and one of the only ones that i have not yet!

My central argument

The central argument of my analysis is that our society is so involved and interested in all forms of media, that in order to be a successful artist, singing is not enough. A successful artist in this culture, is rather a popstar that is prevalent in several parts of the entertainment world. For example one of the greatest superstars, Beyonce is a singer, songwriter, actress,  entrepreneur, and fashion designer. To be famous now, means that people must take an interest in you, and the more you appear in the media for various reasons whether it is a commercial or a new album, the more people will know your name and the more recognizable you will be as a star.
This is the most argument of my paper because the question I wanted to answer was: Why is Beyonce, and almost every famous singer, like Miley Cyrus, involved in so many forms of the entertainment industry. I will prove that an artists must present themselves like this by using examples through my paper such as Beyonce, Miley Cyrus, Jennifer Lopez, and Justin Timberlake. Moreover, I will contrast it to other artists such as Vanessa Carlton or Carly Rae Jeapson who only focus on their music and did not branch out- by default they are not as successful or well known by all ages and people as the previous artists.

Methods of Argument

I think it will be most effective to present my evidence in the classical arrangement where I begin with an introduction, background information, my proposition, proof, a refute, and then a conclusion. My driving question is "Why does a musician this day in age have to get involved in various form of artistry to become well known and successful? What factors in our society cause this?". I am using my artist, Beyonce, as an example because not only is she a respected artist, but she also appears in movies, campaigns, TV shows, commercials, etc. Her publicity exists way beyond the barriers of the music scene.

Thus, I think the classical arrangement will be most useful to present my evidence because I can spend a while explaining the background of the concept, and how many famous artists now a days use this approach to gain fame, such as Beyonce of Miley Cyrus. I can then compare it to artists in the past such as Madonna or Cher, who stuck strictly to music. Also, I think it is better to start off with a presentation of an argument and then mention a refute, as compared to the rogerian argument, where the refute comes first. Also, considering this idea is considerably well known and evident among most of our society and culture, I do not think I will find much refute, therefore I think it should be mentioned last.

My chosen topic!

After much deliberation, I have chosen to pursue the topic: In this day in age, in order to be a popular, well-known artist, one must branch out into multiple realms of the media; you must not just be an artist, you must be a celebrity. I will use my artist Beyonce, as an example of this growing phenomenon because she is not only involved in producing music, but she is in movies, has her own perfume line, and appears in multiple campaigns, like Covergirl and Coke-a-Cola. She is ubiquitous.

3 questions I would like to address:
1. Why is there such a need for artists to get involved in so much aspects of fame and publicity to be successful.
2. Does this take away from the artist's music?
3. Compare Beyonce to other artists who have done the same, such as Taylor Swift or JLO, and contrast her to artists who have not done what she has done, such as Pink or Avril Lavigne.

I will look at Beyonce's documentary from last year "Life is but a Dream", to show how she gets involved with many forms of publicity, but still remains very personalized and not commercialized.
Also, I will look at personal interviews with Beyonce or with her publicist to help understand the purpose behind involving Beyonce in all these different forms of publicity.

3 topics/ issues for my paper

I have outlines 3 possible topics for this next paper:
1. Beyonce and how she has tackled the issue of race through her works
2. Beyonce and gender: her ongoing theme of female empowerment and how that has shaped the music industry today especially regarding female pop stars
3. Explore how now in oder to be a well known pop star, you have to branch to various forms of media not just music. Use Beyonce as an example, how she has been in movies, a covergirl, her own perfume, and a coke spokesperson

I am leaning more towards topic 3, just because it is something different than what I have written about on my past 3 papers, and I think I can find a lot of interesting evidence and commentary on it. This topic interests me, because I have noticed now with almost every singer, they have branched out into other forms of media and I think it will be a really interesting topic to explore.


http://visionaryartistrymag.com/2011/11/beyonce-multi-faceted-diva/
This source talk about all the different ways Beyonce has appeared on media. She has her own clothing line, she is a grammy award singer, she was in several movies. Beyoncé is a World Wide Woman with her hands in more than just music. We all know her name and at the rate she’s going, we always will. It shows in order to be a successful artist, you must be involved with more than just music. 

Topics I would like to pursue

Beyonce is much more than your typical female pop star today. Although, she is greatly involved in pop culture and pop music, her role in the music industry is much greater than that of let's say Selena Gomez. Thus, I would love to focus on really more personal issues of Beyonce. I think I have covered a lot of musical topics in my last 3 papers, but I love love to focus on her music's social impact on our country and on the music industry as a whole. I think she has done a great deal in paving a pathway for woman to feel more confident in themselves, and to accept diversity and imperfections. Beyonce is not the typical "stick" you see in music videos like Miley Cyrus. She is a proud, full figured woman who is not afraid to show her uniqueness or her ethnicity for that matter. People are obsessed with Knowles. She is a wife, a mom, and a superstar- she does it all. I would love to explore her social impact on this music industry since she has become such a megastar.

Here's to the Good Times critique

Recently, my interest in country music has been on the rise, and I think it has to do with the country pop fusion genre that is occurring, and Florida Georgia Line's Here's to the Good Times is no exception to that. This album is full of songs to make any pop lover see a side to country music they never have before. "Cruise" and "Get Your Shine On" are the perfect road trip, top down car trip songs in my opinion. They still stay true to the country aspect with their lyrics, but the beat is more up-temp and just makes you want to belt out the song. The album also captures the essence of summer and is all around just a feel good album. I am very familiar with this album, considering my recent interest in country music. However, I haven't heard of this band until this album because like Emily said in her album review, this album's purpose was purely to popularize the band- and it did just that. Now, Florida Georgia Line is a well known country band because it managed to mix in pop elements that make their music appealing to the pop culture.

AUDIENCE FOR MY ALBUM REVIEW REDO

WHOOPS! sorry, I confused this week's blog post with last week's blog post. So, last week I already answered the question about my intended audience; however now that I am in the midst of writing my outline, I think I can answer this question more in depth. So for my album review I chose, I am... Sasha Fierce because it shows Beyonce's dual personality and was really an outbreak album for Beyonce's solo career. Already in my research, I have found different perspectives and opinions on Beyonce's approach to this album and the expression of her different personas. Some agrue the split album enhanced Beyonce's message, while other's believe it weakened the album and took away from the actual music.
However, the audience for my album will be the same audience that Beyonce allures; young mostly female listeners because of her use of pop in tracks such as "Run The World (Girls)". My imaginary audience will mostly be my own generation because we are Beyonce's biggest fan base and are most intrigued in her work and what she does. My generation clearly adores pop, so their love for this album is undeniable. To be honest, Beyonce is the one celebrity I would spend my time reading an article or album review on, and I think I had speak for most of her fans when I say that. However, since this is such a meaningful album for Beyonce regarding her image, I think it may draw a more older and professional audience as well.

My album review audience

Since beyonce is classified as a pop music artist, my general audience for this album review will be mostly female young adults. This generation loves the mix of upbeat hip hop and smooth R&B elements that Beyonce includes in her album. Especially in 4 and I Am... Sasha Fierce,  Beyonce incorporates her sassiness and classiness in her tracks. There is a reason Beyonce has such a loyal following, and that is because her music relates to such a wide audience. They will be reading my album review because it is always interesting to see Beyonce's message behind her lyrics and why her album is put together the way it is. Beyonce is such an admired celebrity, that anyone would be dying to know what work really goes into making an album, thematically and much more.

"Ring the Alarm" Critique

While, I personally cannot resist buying any of Beyonce's songs in iTunes, one song I can live without is "Ring the Alarm. The song is found on Beyonce's album B-day released in 2006 and is about a woman who feels threatened, and is unwilling to allow another woman into her ex lover/ lover's life. "Ring the Alarm" is R&B but also has punk rock influences, which I do not enjoy because it makes the song very intense. For example, the introduction features a blazing siren, which creates an aggressive, harsh tone; this is unlike the smooth Beyonce music is am used to. The song is definetly different than Beyonce's usual work, because in "Ring the Alarm" she comes off as a psychotic ex- girlfriend, while the reason I praise Beyonce so much is because she portrays a strong female figure through her songs. She sings with so much quavering intensity, and especially the music video implies she is crazy. In the video she is being held down my guards and truly seems like a "jealousy- crazed ex". The reason I do not like this song is because the angry tone is not the Beyonce I am used to and the Beyonce I praise. The Beyonce I love is seen in songs like "Run The World" and "Listen" where she conveys a message of female power and class through smooth and enjoyable tones and beats. The musical performance is not "clean" and it usually gives me a headache, especially with the siren in the introduction. This track honestly just bothers me and is aggravating to listen to.

Generic conventions of Beyonce

What are the generic convention of Beyonce's music? Well, that is hard to define and narrow down because Beyonce's work covers such a wide range. When I think of Beyonce's music, the first words that come to mind are soulful and catchy. These generic conventions help categorize her into the R&B genre of music. Her music is passionate and expressive, yet very much in the "pop" realm of music. Her dynamic sound ranges from upbeat to slow and soothing, yet the basic Beyonce working are recognizable in all her tracks. She fuses together popular, catchy tunes with meaningful lyrics that create music that you cannot help but jam out to. The instrumentation in her music is similar. She incorporates drum rhythms 
Knowles' voice is versatile; she is capable of exploring power ballads, soul, rock belting, operatic flourishes, and hip hop. Her range and power are evident in all of her music as well. Although, she is such a diverse artist, her basic conventions are all the same, typing together her music. She emerges as a R&B pop artist for her amalgamation of soulfulness and catchiness in her music. 

Concerns regarding critical analysis

Concerns:
1. Am I too general in my statements regarding my critical analysis/ do I support my claims well enough
2. Do I have a clear point per paragraph, and do I make that point and relate it back to my thesis?
3. Does my paper logically flow together ?
4. Do my points and thesis make sense? Are they supported well enough?

Article response

The two articles I was assigned to read for this assignment allowed me to see Beyonce in a new light. My first article "At Last...? Michelle Obama, Beyonce Race & History", analyzed Beyonce's role as the performer at Obama's inauguration ball and what that meant for this country. My other article, "All That You Can't Leave Behind" examines the politics of black women's pop music culture through the works of Mary J. Blige and Beyonce in relation to the Gulf Coast catastrophe- Hurricane Katrina. These two articles worked well together and were actually easy to compare and create a thesis from because they both show how Beyonce is more than just a popular musician, but how she serves a greater role as an American icon. In both articles she is compared to a strong black women which also indicates her emergence as the trademark of American womanhood.

Given two lengthly articles, at first it was difficult to extract the themes and thesis of each article. I was not sure exactly what I was reading for. Was I looking for the main argument, how they relate, their faults? However, after finishing I was able to draw comparisons on how each author discusses Beyonce's role in our pop culture. Both articles praise her control over the image she presents and the pride she takes in her roots. Also each author argues that Beyonce serves as a symbol of the strength of our country and all that is good.

The two articles allowed me to see Beyonce as a national icon. In a society filled with celebrities being controlled by social media and pop culture, Beyonce controls it.

Why you should get to know Beyonce and her music

Beyonce's music is definitely worth listening to and getting to know. I recommend it specifically because her music can relate to anyone, at any time, any where. She has a song to fit any mood and any song of hers can brighten my day. I listen to Beyonce at the gym, on my way to class, and right before I go to bend. Her sound is unlike anything else I know, and I simply just cannot get her music out of my head. Also, Beyonce always makes me point known and distinguishes what she believes from other people. Her message is always clear in her music, which is why i love listening to it so much. Yet some listeners may challenge my view by insisting that some of her music isn't real to her because she didn't write it herself. Some view her as just another pop woman figure like a Madonna. Yes, Beyonce's girl power theme has been explored by artists in the past, however Beyonce's music and its message is still true to her and what she believes. She may not write every word, or orchestrate every note; however her voice is always there and is prevalent. She is not just another female artist to enter the music world. There is a reason Beyonce has been such a strong presence in the industry for almost two decade's now. Her music kicks ass and so does she.

Liner Note Reflection

At first when we were assigned to write the liner note, I was a little nervous and confused just because I had never heard of one before and it is certainly a different structure than writing an essay. However, once I got the general feel for it, I realized it was not so hard, and it turned out to be actually enjoyable to write. I loved researching Beyonce's songs and background. It was remarkable to learn about all the effort and meaning that goes into each of her tracks. Also, since she is such a popular artist, is was very easy to find credible analysis and interviews.

I had a common theme in my playlist, so relating each song back to that really worked for my liner note and added depth and a purpose to my playlist. However, at times I felt like there was so much to include from quotes from Beyonce herself, to lyric analysis, to commentary on the music video. Since there are so many aspects to each one of her songs, I felt as though I could not include all that I wanted to. Overall, I enjoyed writing the liner note because it was unlike any other english assignment I have had before.

Why Beyonce is important to me

I chose Beyonce as my focal artist for the semester because I truly believe she has started a revolution. From the second she launched her solo career in 2003, Beyonce has been a symbol of independence, class, and strength. For as long as I can remember, when people ask my who my role model is, I always say Beyonce. There is just something about the way she carries herself that makes her unforgettable and lovable. She is so important to me as an artist because she manages to have a song for any mood I am in. Whether it is getting over a relationship, wanting to dance, or just wanting to enjoy life- Beyonce has a track for any occasion. She is my go to girl, and she has not let me down yet.

Like I said, Beyonce has started a revolution for female power throughout her career. In my opinion, she is the most socially relevant female artist in pop music today. She gives girls a realistic model to look up to. She is has a full body, and works it. I have not spoken to one person, who does not think she is the epitome of class. Her beauty is truly inside and out, and she shows that in everything she does. She is superwoman! Not only is she an amazing artist, but she is a wife and mom as well. The pop culture world would not be the same without Beyonce's ongoing commitment to girl power and strength. Without her, we would be lost in a world of Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez; Beyonce brings truth and meaning to the pop culture world.

Playlist research

When first assigned the liner notes, I immedtaly knew the songs I wanted to choose. I also thought I knew their purpose and basically everything about them because Beyonce is all I listen to- but i was proven wrong. After sifting through various biographies, interviews, and articles I discovered the technicalities behind each song and Beyonce's inspiration and purpose for each of the tracks. I found articles from several magazines such as Entertainment Weekly and New York Magazine, which provided great insight into the inner workings of Beyonce's albums. I learned about the reactions to her songs and music videos. For example, the music video for "Best Thing I Never Had" received excellent reviews because of the artistry behind it and how Beyonce sings directly to the camera. I also found interviews with Knowles herself from Billboard stating her inspiration for "Run the World"; she wanted to mix together different eras and cultures to find a new sound and she did just that. The research I did for the liner notes was very interesting and informative, learning how much critique and work goes into one song.

Beyonce's "Girl Power" Playlist

Beyonce's Girl Power Playlist:
"Best Thing I Never Had"- Beyonce- 4
"If I Were a Boy"- Beyonce- I am Sasha Fierce
"Run the World (Girls)- Beyonce- 4

When I think of Beyonce, the first word that comes to mind is empowering. As I described in my previous blog, the reason I chose Beyonce is because she is a strong, confident woman and her songs convey just that. The playlist I chose embodies Beyonce's "Girl Power", yet each song delivers a different message. "Run the World (Girls)" is my favorite go-to song whenever I need to get excited about anything, and it really identifies with women's strength and coming together. "If I Were a Boy" identifies with us girls when dealing with a boy, and provides a sense of hope and strength. Finally, "Best Thing I Never Had" tells a story of a girl who does not need a boy to be happy, showing Beyonce's true independence giving us listeners something to aspire to. Collectively, these songs create the ultimate playlist for any girl who needs a little guidance and strength. Beyonce always delivers empowering messages through her music, but this playlist will always get the message across!

Why I chose Beyonce (1)

Welcome to Beyoncé’s Blog Spot! In class today, Jessica assigned us to pick an artist or group to focus on for the entire semester. I was initially thrown off because how could I chose simply one artist to focus on when I have such a plethora of interests. My ITunes library ranges from Michael Jackson and Christina Aguilera to Tim McGraw and Blake Shelton. However, after much deliberation I have chosen to focus on Beyoncé Knowles for this semester. I have grown up listening to her and her records range from upbeat dance music to slow and soulful. To me Beyoncé epitomizes class not only in her music but also in her daily life, and I am extremely interested to further immerse myself in her career and artistry. I have always found her music relatable, catchy, and just so enjoyable to listen to. I ultimately chose Beyoncé because I have found that she has a song to fit any mood I am in and she is one of the few artists out there that serves as a positive strong role model to all.