We listen to music at home, in the car, at work (sometimes), at parties — pretty much everywhere. Some of us even sing in the shower. So how do we even describe exactly what music is? It’s been called “the opposite of silence,” and it both enriches lives and can, likewise, move us to tears!
Beethoven’s Ninth is a BIG Deal
Harvard U. Professor Tom Kelly explains how Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony has attained status unmatched by any other work of music.
The Greatest Rock and Roll Song Ever?
In 1965 and 1966, Bob Dylan “went electric” and produced some of the most remarkable music of his career, including what Boston U. Professor William McKeen (and others) think is the greatest Rock & Roll song ever.
The Day that Bruce Changed Everything
Bruce Springsteen’s career was fading, and he was about to lose his record contract, when everything changed on March 8, 1972. Learn exactly what happened from Brooklyn College Professor, Eric Alterman.
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He Really Did Think “Anything Goes”
Nate Sloan from USC is a big fan of Cole Porter’s music, and he explains why in this clip. For its time, it was thoroughly modern and new: not nostalgic for the past, but excited for the future – as best illustrated by Porter’s hit “Anything Goes,” sung by Ethel Merman.
Music Inspired By Assembly Line
Berry Gordy wore many hats at Motown, in addition to being the founder. Prior to that, Gordy worked in Detroit for the Ford Motor Company where the assembly line construction methods actually inspired him – as his autobiography explicitly states. Brandeis Professor Gil Harel provides even more specific detail.
The Movement You Need is On Your Shoulders
Michael Rose has taught classes solely on the Beatles and their music at Vanderbilt University. He feels no song has ever captured the feeling of recovering from grief and sadness quite like their 1968 hit “Hey Jude,” which was written by Paul for John’s son, Julian, during his parents’ divorce.
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