Music Genre Discussion

On the 17th June, our group underwent a phase of discussion; which included a creative and spontaneous idea/thought process (based on the music genre we intend to use for our music video).

Firstly, we considered whether to use copyright free music - produced by artists in the public eye - or investigate into an unknown band/artist, who may allow our group use of their songs, for our practical promo video. We eventually agreed to conduct further research and investigation into the matter. Our group done this by sending numerous emails and messages to relatively unknown artists (via social networking sites e.g. MySpace, and personal contacts e.g. friends, relatives and teachers) and examine how and where to purchase copyright-free music.

Secondly, the concept of music genre is an important element in the promo video design process. It is an extremely vital aspect, one of which we must decide as an entire group and one which we must stick to throughout the coursework module. After various discussions, of which 'R&B' and 'Pop' where mentioned, we eventually choose an 'Indie Rock' genre to follow. However, we will not be strict with our choice, and take various influences from other genres (such as 'Jazz' and 'Pop') in the choice of song and production phase i.e. mise-en-scene.

Finally, before starting product analyses, we choose to create a short-list of possible songs to use. When cut down, we have chosen the potential in 2 professional songs: Stevie Wonder - 'Superstition' and Plan B - 'Love Goes Down'. Furthermore, this is subject to change; due to copyright reasons, we may not be able to use the songs we have chosen, therefore will have to use a song from an unknown artist (one of which will give our group the right to use their recorded tracks).

These discussions have allowed our group to move swiftly on to our product analyses -of music videos, advertisements and album covers - of which we will grasp further knowledge of connotations from the 'Indie Rock' genre, allowing us to conclude findings for use in our final products.

Posted by Drew Middleton.