Exploring the Influence of Mass Media and Popular Culture on the Works of Famous Composers
From the earliest of times, music has been a medium that mirrors society. It is impossible to separate the creation of music from the cultural context in which it takes place. As the world has progressed and society has drifted from classical forms of culture, the works of composers have been heavily influenced by mass media and popular culture. This article explores how these influences have affected the works of famous composers.
The Effect of Mass Media on Music Composers
The advent of mass media has had a profound influence on the creation of music. It is no wonder that music composers are heavily influenced by the music they listen to. They grew up listening to a variety of music types, and now, as professional musicians, they carefully scrutinize the latest hits and trends.
The accessibility of music, movies, and other popular media resonates deeply with famous composers, and they consciously or subconsciously draw from them to create their music. For example, the use of synthesizers in the ’80s would not have been as prevalent if Michael Jackson, Madonna, and other popular musicians had not used them beforehand.
Similarly, the advent of social media has made it increasingly easier for music audiences to voice their opinions openly. Composers, in turn, pay attention to this feedback, and it can affect their subsequent creations.
Popular Culture’s Impact on Music Composers
Popular culture is a force to be reckoned with in today’s world. Mass media defines popular culture as the mainstream, which people around the world are exposed to through TV, newspapers, magazines, and the internet. Music composers do not live in a vacuum. As people who are also members of society, they not only create music but also experience popular culture.
As a result, composers create music that speaks to specific societal issues, such as social justice, mental health, or climate change. The works of famous composers such as Kendrick Lamar and Taylor Swift are prime examples of how music can be used to address social issues.
Moreover, composers are known to borrow from popular culture to create new musical styles. For example, rock and roll would not have come into existence without borrowing heavily from blues music.
Closing Thoughts
In the end, it is difficult to separate music from popular culture and mass media. The two play off of each other and influence one another in significant ways, and this is a good thing. Music is an art form that reflects society and captures the essence of what makes us human. Composers who draw influence from popular culture and mass media create works that resonate deeply with us because they speak to the experiences we share.
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