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!