https://youtu.be/5NEkJhBHh54 In “The Circle Game,” Joni Mitchell showcases her pure, light-hearted voice. With the use of a carousel metaphor, Mitchell sings of a child becoming an adult. The article’s misclassification of “folk rock” seems to fit almost perfectly, the light mood and guitar makes the song sound like “granola-infused hippie music.” The purity of the song is a stark contrast to rock ‘n’ roll and the controversy that is going on because of disco music. Also, this song gives me the same feeling that “Butterfly Fly Away” by Miley Cyrus does.
https://youtu.be/qKGTaplzmV4 “Doctor My Eyes” by Jackson Browne has more rock undertones than “The Circle Game” does. Browne is accompanied by piano, drums, and guitar which complements his slightly raspy voice. The article expressed that there seemed to be a lot of admiration of singers toward other singers. I believe this is seen in the fact that this song sounds like many songs that were created during this time. Admittedly, I listen to a lot of “this type” of music, because of my parents and personal interest, so I have come to know many of these types of songs. Given this, some songs that remind me of Browne’s song is “Joy to the World” by Three Dog Night, “Mr. Blue Sky” by Electric Light, and “Reelin’ In The Years” by Steely Dan.
https://youtu.be/6ysu2aUCwgk Linda Ronstadt’s voice in “You’re No Good” is powerful and round which is emphasized with a sassy, country sounding instrumental. At Laurel Canyon, there were many genres that intermingled with each other. “You’re No Good” has country, blues, jazz, and rock ‘n’ roll undertones, from what I can decipher. I feel almost as if no one else could give this song the justice that Ronstadt gives it; her powerful voice and attitude is perfect for this song and makes it that much better.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80_39eAx3z8 “For What It’s Worth” written by Buffalo Springfield is a song that reflects on the activism that is in the air. At the time this song was released, it was a time of protest as this song plays a role in talking about anti-war gatherings. This song manages to calm the violence in America and warns the population that people should start looking around their surroundings. The melody and the rhythm of the song is very catchy as the lines are repeated throughout. Adding on to the musical part of the song, an electric guitar is played slowly as the drum sets are introduced in the beginning. This then relates to the warning that Springfield is trying to deliver to the audience.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bkvfjXCoD9I Kind of different from the first song I mentioned before, “Kind Woman” by Buffalo Springfield is more tranquil. The beats are slower and gives off the feeling of sorrow. This song is not only about love between your significant other but also to all the kind women in his life. I believe this was written after his breakup which is more significant towards him as a writer. Moreover, the piano gives off a more jazzy vibe to a song. The mood of the song throughout is very constant and does not change as there are not a lot of various dynamics displayed in the song. I personally liked listening to this song because it was soothing to listen to as the lyrics were very touching too.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8EUL-O3hRA “Expecting to Fly” by Buffalo Springfield was written and recorded on May 6, 1967. An orchestra is introduced in the very beginning as it is different from the two songs above. This song is based on despression as the lyrics are very touching and meaningful. The idea of committing suicide is introduced but there is another person who is stopping him from doing it. He is devastated from a person who left his life. Similarly to the previous song, this song is about sadness and depression, relating to most of the songs that was written during this era.
“Jesus in 3/4 Time”-J.D. Souther https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5p2-NvgvkAo J.D. Souther’s “Jesus in 3/4 Time” sounds a lot like Elton John’s music with the soulful singing and the piano accompaniment in the background. But as the article mentioned, I could hear a lot of blues and bluegrass influence in the way that he sung. It sounds as if he’s lamenting to Jesus with his melancholy tone and long notes, especially because he mentions often that he’d dedicated his whole life to Jesus; whether or not it was worth it in the end seems to be unknown to his audience. Apparently, songs that are written in 3/4 time signature are often more sad in nature and for this piece it seems to come into play.
“Turn Back the Pages”-Stephen Stills https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivbaep_7Suk Stephen Still’s “Turn Back The Pages” is the kind of music that I’d hear my dad play in the car with it’s apparent rock influence with fast paced beat. It’s got more of an upbeat feeling like I’m driving on the freeway near the coastline with the wind blowing through my hair. The song basically tells you that life’s too short to focus on people who are out of your life, and instead of wasting your time thinking about them you just have to keep moving forward.
“Heart of Gold”-Neil Young Neil Young’s “Heart of Gold” has an interesting guitar riff in it’s intro and reminds me of a very simplified version of Jimi Hendrix’s guitar playing style. It’s got heavy bluegrass influence with the harmonica and singing style, and it sounds exactly like a lovesick cry from a lonely man. It has quite a reliable message of someone who’s just searching for their other half, their perfect match in the big world we live in. It’s safe to say that we’ve all been on a search for a heart of gold in this lonely world.
The first song I chose to listen to from the playlist was “For What It’s Worth” by Buffalo Springfield. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80_39eAx3z8 The time this song was published was during some of the most melodic, atmospheric, and subtly political American popular music written by those associated with Laurel Canyon. The artists played acoustic guitars and were mislabeled to be “soft rock” or “folk rock.” This type of music included blues, rock and roll, jazz, Latin, country and western, bluegrass and folk. This song is said to be about hippie protests and riots that occurred during the early 70s. More specifically, this song was written in response to the Sunset Strip riots between police and young people. It is often considered an anti-war song and a part of the series of counterculture-era songs. The next song I chose to listen to was “Rock and Roll Woman.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QDpdS3Atyo This song is said to be written about a woman named Grace Slick. However it also seems to be about a woman who represents happiness. The lyrics say that it is comforting for this type of woman to be with the singer to help him and care for him. However, the song mentions that this type of woman is rare: “She’s just hard to find.” This woman could also possibly be a metaphor for enlightenment. The last song I chose to listen to was “On the Way Home” written by Neil Young. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSnCUidmfEc This song is about an experience that brings him closer to someone. It seems to be a very emotionally powered song. It’s saying that instead of us trying to see through someone, we can discover who they are by the way they give their love to us.
(1): “Hotel California” - Eagles “Hotel California” by Eagles is a mellow rock song about a place that on the outside seems like heaven, but underneath is a trap. The song feels psychedelic with hypnotizing guitar playing, which fits the theme of the song. It begins with a single guitar, like the narrator is searching around somewhere. The chorus of residents of Hotel California calling out to the narrator of how its “such a lovely place” gives me eerie vibes. As the song goes on, the narrator finds themselves trapped within in the hotel, unable to truly find an escape.
(2): “Do Right Woman” - The Flying Burrito Brothers “Do Right Woman” is a pretty feminist song in my opinion. The main message is about how women are just as human as their significant others and how they need to be treated with respect. It is a rather uplifting song for women, as the singers tells men they can’t expect women to be the perfect wife if they don’t make the effort to be a perfect husband.
(3): “You Turn Me On, I’m a Radio” - Joni Mitchell “You Turn Me On, I’m a Radio” by Joni Mitchell caught my eye because of the title of the song. Listening to it, there are so many sexual innuendos that make me raise my eyebrows. The song is basically is just a giant metaphor to being turned on sexually and wanting to do the devil’s tango. Women were usually portrayed as innocent and pure, so a woman singing about having a sexual drive is something rather new. It’s not only sexual, but a mix of romance within.
https://youtu.be/iGR_bUYe-PA "Sit Down I Think I Love You" is a love song, talking about how one guy wants to become this woman's lover. From the title of the song, aspects of the title is something that one might say in a conversation. "Sit down" is kine of like a command and I think that this song is showing that this man wants to tell this woman that he thinks he's in love with her. There are a couple of beats where there is a guitar solo in place between the bridge and the chorus. This song had a very mellow tone to it which is something that I like. I also liked the overall theme of the song as it pertains to love which is what I like listening to.
https://youtu.be/4v8KEbQA8kw The Eagles was a very popular rock band but they created a song that was totally different than a normal rock song. "Take It Easy" was very upbeat song yet it still had a gentle tone to it. This song talks about taking things easy and that there is no rush to doing things. I think this song is a metaphor for life because you shouldn't rush things in life. Some things take time and you just need to have a little patience for it to come around. This song is written in the context of a potential love song. It talks about a relationship and taking things easy within it. I really liked this song and it was interesting to listen to a "non-rock" song from this popular band.
https://youtu.be/wSL1yWOhHoQ "Go Where You Wanna Go" gave me more of a country vibe than any other style. From the opening tune, it sounded like something that you would hear in the South. Sung by The Mamas & The Papas, this song captures the aspect of leaving someone to do the thing you really want to do. The lyrics, "Do what you wanna do / With whoever you wanna do it with," represents the freedom that the narrator(s) are trying to get at. It shows that maybe even in the darkest times, this person (or people) are setting you out into the world to doing what you put your mind to. From the title of the song, it sounds like something that we can all takeaway from: the thought of doing what you want to do most is one of the most important things that your life has to offer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vpgoNDi71Q “One of These Nights” by the Eagles is a rock song with a good calming beat that is continuous throughout the song. The story of the song addresses a romantic interest. In one verse it says, “I’ve been searching for the daughter of the Devil himself / I’ve been searching for an angel in white.” The main person in this song seems very attracted to this other person, but they will hopefully tell them “one of these nights.” The song starts off with a few of the instruments quietly playing and slowly, more seem to join leading up to the actual singing. Once the singing starts, the instruments seem to have a nice beat and they also come to sing together and make amazing harmonies.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HmzN1p5q2sY “For Free” by Joni Mitchell talks about the story of a New York sidewalk musician. Mitchell starts off the song by playing beautifully on the piano and this entire song’s instrumentals is only the piano. Mitchell has a very sweet, calming voice and it is shown in this song. The song’s story talks about a sidewalk musician who plays for everyone for free which is where the title comes from. While he played really well, the song states that, “Nobody stopped to hear him.” The lines following it says, “Though he played so sweet and high / They knew he had never / Been on their T.V.” This shows how hard it is for people, especially singers, to catch their big break. While this sidewalk musician played really well, no one cared to look at him since he wasn’t already famous. The song talks about how hard he tried and while he was playing “for free,” no one really cared.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJ58TVYNFro “Something to Talk About” by Bonnie Raitt is a blues rock song and the story of the song is based around gossip. The people in this song live in a small town and because of that, gossip can spread fast. A singer in this town is rumored to be having an affair with another guy and because of the rumors, the other people in the town ask to do it even if they hadn’t just to give them “something to talk about.” This song is pretty upbeat but it also has a calming tune. Raitt has a strong, powerful voice that is shown a lot throughout the song.
https://youtu.be/r8jC1lRZGTU “Ballad of Easy Rider” sounded like a happy tune; one that you listen to while on the road driving somewhere far off. The tempo is not too slow or too fast. This song explains the wanting of freedom and when one finally reaches the point of freedom, one can realize there is a price. The price is that freedom can come with terrible loneliness.
https://youtu.be/wIZt2uyu4-4 “Crazy Love” by Poco is a country rock song with has a slower tempo and a soothing tone. The strum of the guitar in the beginning sets the mood for the emotions of the lyrics and their story. The harmonies was another prominent feature of this song because it allows for a richer sound. The lyrics represent a man who is mentally breaking away from the memory of an old lover. It shows the hope that is wanted in order to not become trapped.
https://youtu.be/eAR_Ff5A8Rk “You’ve Got a Friend” by Carole King offers an uplifting message that whenever you feel alone or down, a friend will be there for you no matter what. Wherever you are, she will have your back to ensure of your happiness. The deep chords of the piano and soft strums of an acoustic guitar makes the song sound composed and organized. It is a soft rock and folk song that leaves an emotional message.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94bdMSCdw20 “Big Yellow Taxi” by Joni Mitchell is an upbeat song with a guitar part paired with Mitchell’s beautiful voice. The message of the song is not as upbeat as the song suggests as a line that repeats many times is “They paved paradise, and put up a parking lot”. Living in Hawaii, I instantly saw the connection to this song and I thought that was very unexpected. It is almost as if Joni Mitchell hides the meaning of the song with how catchy she makes the song sound.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-aK6JnyFmk “California Dreamin” is a catchy song by The Mamas and Papas. The song is about wishing for California and the party image of the west coast during this time in America. I could very much see how this song would be very popular as it captures the carefree feelings people had at this time. This song reminded me a lot of The Beach Boys.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pbn6a0AFfnM “Both Sides Now” is another song by Joni Mitchell but more somber than the other one is. The song talks about heartbreak and love. Again the combination of Joni Mitchell’s voice and strum of the guitar make the song sound smooth. Her lyrics are very authentic and captures the feelings of losing a relationship with someone. It has a hopeful yet also sad tone to it.
First song I listened to was “For What Its Worth” by Buffalo Springfield. The song was released in 1966 and has a pretty easy going and laid back flow to it. There are longer pauses between lyrics which allows the listener to just enjoy the song and really vibe to it. The song has a lot of moving parts from vocals and instruments but everything seems to just mesh and work together. The songs lyrics suggest that its an anti war song but it could also be talking about some of the other major events happening during that time. The lyrics encourage evryone to stoop and take a minute to look around and see whats happening around them
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQOaUnSmJr8
The second song I listened to was “Teach Your Children Well” by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. The song was released in 1969 and is a more country sounding track. The song has a more sweeter and soft feel to it almost as if the artists are singing a lullaby to a child. As the name suggests the songs lyrics are about teaching your children or the next generation well. But then in the second to last stanza the narrative shifts to being the children teaching there parents well which was very intresting.
The last song I listened to was “Running On Empty” by Jackson Brown, released 1977. The song falls under the genre of rock but in my opinion it has some country sound to it. Its definelty a softer sounding rock song and has more pop like vocals. I recognized this song from the movies that it has been featured in. Pretty much all of the movies that this song is in use it during scenes when the main charchter(s) are driving which is funny because the song is basically about driving. The song has a thrilling feel to it that almost makes you wanna go out and adventure.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-aK6JnyFmk The first song that I listened to was “California Dreamin”. I actually really liked the song as it was very upbeat and had a very catchy tune to the song. The song was actually released in 1965 meaning that it was apart of the 1960s. The tune of the song is very familiar and seems like a very popular song. The song is made up of one person singing and the next people harmonizing the same lyrics. Overall the song was very catchy and I would listen to it again.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BciS5krYL80 The Next song that I listened to was “Hotel California”. Instantly I recognized the song and the song still has a huge legacy until today having 23 million views on youtube. When looking at the lyrics and analyzing the song I realized that the song is actually pretty sarcastic and exposes the music industry. It shows that the music industry may seen really good, but it actually really dark with all the influences and alcohol.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGR_bUYe-PA The last song that I listened to was “Sit Down I Think I Love You”. I thought that the sound had a really good rhythm to it. To me it sounded like something that the beatles would sing. It sounded like a group of singers together harmonizing. There wasn’t an apparent meaning to the song. It just sounds like a person loves this women and just doesn’t want to let her go.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=80_39eAx3z8 The first song that I listened to was, “For What It’s Worth”. I thought that the song had a really good rhythmic sound, and it was very smooth. The vocals perfectly matched the instrumental. The instrumental alone was also something that was pretty catchy and easy to learn. It is nice because it is a song that is simple but does not sound oversimplified at the same time.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=bkvfjXCoD9I The second song that I listened to was, “Kind Woman”. This song was incredibly smooth, and easy on the ears to listen to. It had a constant slow pace which was nice and allowed for the listener to really just sit back and enjoy the sound for what it was. It also allowed for you to really listen to the song and not have to strain to hear the lyrics. It featured breaks between singing to which let the instrumental really sit in.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=s8EUL-O3hRA The third song that I listened to was, “Expecting to Fly”. This was another song that was pretty slow, but this one has a more emotional sound to it. In this song the instrumental kind of overpowered the lyrics and I could not really understand, but I think it contributed to the more sad feeling of the song. Especially at the end of the song where they had the solo and then the fade out, that was something that kind of solidified those emotions.
The first song I listened to was, “For What It’s Worth” by, Buffalo Springfield. This song was very simple and easy going but the lyrics were actually more deep than that. It’s a slower song that starts off with a guitar then other instruments begin to chime in along with the drums. The song is about protestors and strife that’s been between people keeping them a apart. Nobody wants to communicate and actually find a solution, everyone just wants their side to overcome the other side. But wha the narrator is realizing is that this method of protests will never work and violence will just continue which is what he means when he says, “You better stop/Hey, what’s that sound?/Everybody look, what’s going down?”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bkvfjXCoD9I
The second song I listened to was another song by Buffalo Springfield, “Kind Woman.” This song almost reminds me of the blues a little bit because how it’s about love and yearning for this one girl that they love. It’s also another slow song but this time instead of a guitar the piano is the main instrument. The song is a love song about this guy describing this woman he has fallen for. Then he continues to beg for her in way when he says, “Kind woman/Don’t leave me lonely tonight/Please say it’s all right.”
https://youtu.be/4v8KEbQA8kw
The third song I listened to was, “Take It Easy” by, the Eagles. This song was more upbeat than the other two songs I listened to. It starts off strong with the guitar and has an upbeat rhythm to it. This song is nice and lighthearted about just doing it, no matter what may happen if they just got each other it’ll be okay. Which is what I got from his lyrics when he said, “Come one baby, don’t say maybe/I gotta know if your sweet love/is gonna save me.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-aK6JnyFmk I listened to “California Dreamin” which is a song about leaving his cold home town and going to sunny California. This song was from 1965. This song overall was good and had a memorable melody that you’ll catch yourself humming. I also think the message was relatable about wanting to go where the grass is greener and moving away from where you’re from.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BciS5krYL80 The next song I listened to was “Hotel California”. I didnt realize it before but I’ve definitely heard this song. It’s one of those songs that you scream in the car going 80 on the freeway at night with the windows down. I never really looked at the lyrics, but they’re not as positive as the energy associated with the song and have the ses of alcohol and drugs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJ58TVYNFro The last song I listened to was “Something to Talk About”. This song is about a singer in this town who is having an affair with another guy. The people in the town are all nosy and need something to talk about. I love songs with this kind of theme for some reason. For example rumor has it by Adele or rumors by zayn or even the country song rumor. I find them so interesting to listen to for some reason
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIEV1OanDGY “All I really want to do” by The Byrds exemplifies the close relationship aspect of Laurel Canyon. The lyrics “All I really want to do, is baby, be friends with you” may not show the lustful feelings present in Laurel Canyon, but the article mentioned that almost everyone was friends with everyone else, so I feel like this song is an example of a song written about these feelings of comradery.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QDpdS3Atyo “Rock & Roll Woman” by Buffalo Springfield is about a real woman, Grace Slick. According to one of the members of the band, they came up with the song at David Crosby’s place as they jammed out together. This song’s background and lyrical content, praising Slick, shows that the musicians of Laurel Canyon were constantly inspired by each other, and that no song truly belongs to one band since every other seems to be involved in one way or another.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4v8KEbQA8kw “Take it Easy” by the Eagles has lyrics talking about relaxing and “taking it easy” while finding someone to love. The song may at first seem like a man dealing with his own sexual frustration, referring to 7 women in the beginning and another one on the flatbed. However, the 7 women in the beginning actually refer to the 7 days of the week which the character must go through, while the single woman on her flatbed refers to someone slowing down and finding what they need. Like in the citizens Laurel Canyon, the main character is laid back in their pursuit of free love. The music also sounds vaguely country like, probably because the Canyon was a melting pot of different musical stylings.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94bdMSCdw20 The first song I listened to was, “Big Yellow Taxi”, by Joni Mitchell. It’s a higher tempo and upbeat song with a noticeable guitar strum. The song talks about city life. Jon Mitchell kind of praises the paradise that once was to be the countryside. She talks about the country being covered with roads and parking lots which is something none of us really like in Hawaii especially. Her voice is soothing and goes well with the guitar. The strumming makes it sound like a more country or folk song which I like.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJ58TVYNFro Next song I listened to was “Something to Talk About” by Bonnie Raitt. Which sounds more like country just like Joni Mitchell’s songs. The imagery in the video shows a little bit of homosexuality, romance, and old couples dancing. She’s definitely shined the light on the less talked about topics on sex and the imagery matched her voice and tone. The guitar solo and drums adds a more rock and even a blues tone which is something that I enjoyed. I can’t put a finger on what exactly this genre of music is but it’s definitely a mix of many, both an acoustic and electric guitar, drum set, and belting.
https://youtu.be/4v8KEbQA8kw The next song was “Take It Easy” by The Eagles, a group my grandparents talk about. I can see why. My grandma is a country lover and is partially Native American, I’m sure she can relate to this group’s sound. It’s soothing and beautiful but isn’t too soft and not too bold. They talk about the road, women, and the troubles of the world which sounds like a classic country song to me!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFQKvtbD6Kw Running on Empty by Jackson Browne encapsulates the sound of a never- ending journey through its driving piano chords and playful guitar riffs. Browne sings about taking a trip with no clear aim or final destination, but rather one of soul-searching. Lines like “You know I don’t even know what I’m hoping to find / Running into the sun, but I’m running behind” convey this feeling of uncertainty and excitement that was characteristic of those who sought out Laurel Canyon.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Lk2KHajp4Y Almost Cut my Hair by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young feels like a quintessential Rock ballad for the Laurel Canyon era. The lyrics of the song weigh conformity and normalcy against freedom. The lead singer wonders why he has such a strong desire to abandon societal conventions and concludes that “I feel like I owe it to someone.” Thus, he makes his way into “that sunny southern weather” where he sees an opportunity to be free from judgements and regulations. It seems that Laurel Canyon offered this kind of environment to its inhabitants.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQj6h8KpkiQ “Free man in Paris by Joni Mitchell has the sound of early indie rock and folk, musical styles that were characteristic of Laurel Canyon according to the article. Like the two above songs, this tune portrays a man who believes in the allure of free living. Mitchell talks about his days in Paris where he held an occupation that allowed him to do things his own way and thus felt “unfettered and alive.” The lyrics are then tied to the music industry with the line “Stoking the star maker machinery / behind the popular song.” Whether the song is meant to portray a musical artist or a producer in Paris, Joni clearly connects song-making with freedom.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYGK3GvgaII The first song that I listened to was “When Will i be Loved” by Linda Ronstadt. This song sort of took me y surprise, as it was not what I was expecting. This was a very slow and dramatic song, and it sort of had a country twang to it based off of the vocals and instrumentals. This song was based on a women who has had trouble in relationships lately, for example, she has been cheated on. The main point of the song is her waiting for the right person to come around. I really liked this song because although it was very repetitive it had a really smooth and calming tune to it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=saAoTPXcPSg The second song I listened to was “So You want to be a Rock ‘N’ Roll Star,” by the Byrds. This song was very different compared to “When Will i be Loved,” because it was a much faster pace and it was purely rock. I think this song was about taking chances and the artist used the example of pursuing their dream of being a rock n roll star. One of my big takeaways from this song is that taking a chance can take a lot of work and you may not succeed, but if you do you will gain a lot.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIEV1OanDGY The last song I listened to was “All I Really Want to do” also by the Byrds. This song kind of gave me hippy vibes, possibly because of the tambourines played throughout the song, the song in general also had a very freeing tone to it, which is basically what the hippies stood for. This song was basically about just living your life, not causing and trouble or hatred, and just live. So after analyzing the lyrics I strongly believe that this song was based off of the hippy’s lifestyle.5
The Eagles- Life in the Fast Lane https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UprIfC4_3rY This song opens with an almost funky sounding or bendy guitar solo that repeats throughout the song. Based on the title and lyrics, it is quite clear what the song is about. It captures the spirit of the 1970s, similar to “Born to be Wild.” This energy of fast paced living is matched by a fast paced beat and sense of speed throughout the song. In the later part of the song, there is an epic electric guitar solo that can get anyone moving.
Jackson Browne - Running on Empty https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdHg4QEmBvk This song jumps right into speed. This has become an anthem for late night drives, and having that feeling of reckless youth flowing through you, or living life to the fullest. Browne, somehow, is able to really capture youth into this song. When I listened to this, I could visualize that long 1970s brown hair blowing in the wind while driving in an open top car or something. Browne emulates that 1970s vibe of speed once again and living life without worries, like when he talks about running on an empty tank but still going anyways.
Neil Young - Harvest Moon https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2MtEsrcTTs This song seems to be a classic 1970s hit, and I understand why. It captures that bare foot, natural- granola vibe very well. When I listened to this song, I could visualize a bunch of hippies playing acoustic guitar together in a circle. Looking at the lyrics, at first I thought it was a song about nature because of its title, but came to realize it’s a love song. The second guitar that strums down every few bars adds a beautiful dream-like flow to the song, unleashing a positive feeling of ease every time Young plays it.
The first song i listened to was “Neil Young’s “Heart of Gold” is such a yearning, heart felt song. The country sound that the singers voice and the instruments has also keeps the song grounded. This song is about a man looking for a partner with a good heart and good intentions. It’s overall a very nice, saddening song.
The next song I listened to was “Something to Talk About” by Bonnie Raitt. This song talks about being accused of having a relationship with her close friend and then eventually the singer does actually start falling for the friend and wants to be with them. I love the idea of that like “give them something to talk about”. Like not caring about what people think or have to say. Overall this is a song that exudes confidence and with its rock undertones it definitely stands out.
The last song I listened to was “Kind Woman” by Buffalo Springfield. This song is very slow and sentimental with the sound of piano and the troubled voice of the singer. The singer talks about this woman he wants and how he doesn’t want her to leave him alone. It definitely has a feeling of desperation and almost begging this woman to stay with him which makes it a sad song to listen to.
Jase After reading the article, I made connections to the song For What it’s Worth by Buffalo Springfield. The acoustic guitar set the tone and pace for this song. It is clear how this type of music was known as “fold music” instead of “soft rock.” Of course, in this song, there is a protest-like movement embedded within the lyrics. It is more apparent when the lyrics mention the thousands of people marching outside and holding up signs. This song is considered one of the most popular songs created in its album and by its band. The second song I chose was Rock and Roll Woman by Buffalo Springfield. Already in the title, this song might be about standing up for your women’s rights. This song is noticeably shorter than any other song. After listening to this song, there is not much of a protest movement like the first song I chose to listen to. This woman in the song is free to do as she pleases. The song describes all the good qualities she has and ends the song, letting the listener know that the woman in the song is not oblivious to her world. Lastly, I chose to listen to Expecting to Fly. The band, Buffalo Springfield, was no ordinary group of people. They did so much together, from creating music to drugs to sleeping with each other. After listening to the song, the most significant connection I made back to the article was that Expecting to Fly was about the relationships between the band members. After years of being together, sharing each other’s love, there was most likely a time that someone had to leave or passed away. This song says how it is challenging for the other person in the relationship to experience life and love, to lose it all; left in tears as they watched their significant additional leave. The tone of this song was melancholy. The melancholy feeling of this song is that in life, they must move on no matter how hard it may be. After reading and listening to my three choices of songs under the Buffalo Springfield playlist, these are my thoughts.
https://youtu.be/5NEkJhBHh54
ReplyDeleteIn “The Circle Game,” Joni Mitchell showcases her pure, light-hearted voice. With the use of a carousel metaphor, Mitchell sings of a child becoming an adult. The article’s misclassification of “folk rock” seems to fit almost perfectly, the light mood and guitar makes the song sound like “granola-infused hippie music.” The purity of the song is a stark contrast to rock ‘n’ roll and the controversy that is going on because of disco music. Also, this song gives me the same feeling that “Butterfly Fly Away” by Miley Cyrus does.
https://youtu.be/qKGTaplzmV4
“Doctor My Eyes” by Jackson Browne has more rock undertones than “The Circle Game” does. Browne is accompanied by piano, drums, and guitar which complements his slightly raspy voice. The article expressed that there seemed to be a lot of admiration of singers toward other singers. I believe this is seen in the fact that this song sounds like many songs that were created during this time. Admittedly, I listen to a lot of “this type” of music, because of my parents and personal interest, so I have come to know many of these types of songs. Given this, some songs that remind me of Browne’s song is “Joy to the World” by Three Dog Night, “Mr. Blue Sky” by Electric Light, and “Reelin’ In The Years” by Steely Dan.
https://youtu.be/6ysu2aUCwgk
Linda Ronstadt’s voice in “You’re No Good” is powerful and round which is emphasized with a sassy, country sounding instrumental. At Laurel Canyon, there were many genres that intermingled with each other. “You’re No Good” has country, blues, jazz, and rock ‘n’ roll undertones, from what I can decipher. I feel almost as if no one else could give this song the justice that Ronstadt gives it; her powerful voice and attitude is perfect for this song and makes it that much better.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80_39eAx3z8
ReplyDelete“For What It’s Worth” written by Buffalo Springfield is a song that reflects on the activism that is in the air. At the time this song was released, it was a time of protest as this song plays a role in talking about anti-war gatherings. This song manages to calm the violence in America and warns the population that people should start looking around their surroundings. The melody and the rhythm of the song is very catchy as the lines are repeated throughout. Adding on to the musical part of the song, an electric guitar is played slowly as the drum sets are introduced in the beginning. This then relates to the warning that Springfield is trying to deliver to the audience.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bkvfjXCoD9I
Kind of different from the first song I mentioned before, “Kind Woman” by Buffalo Springfield is more tranquil. The beats are slower and gives off the feeling of sorrow. This song is not only about love between your significant other but also to all the kind women in his life. I believe this was written after his breakup which is more significant towards him as a writer. Moreover, the piano gives off a more jazzy vibe to a song. The mood of the song throughout is very constant and does not change as there are not a lot of various dynamics displayed in the song. I personally liked listening to this song because it was soothing to listen to as the lyrics were very touching too.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8EUL-O3hRA
“Expecting to Fly” by Buffalo Springfield was written and recorded on May 6, 1967. An orchestra is introduced in the very beginning as it is different from the two songs above. This song is based on despression as the lyrics are very touching and meaningful. The idea of committing suicide is introduced but there is another person who is stopping him from doing it. He is devastated from a person who left his life. Similarly to the previous song, this song is about sadness and depression, relating to most of the songs that was written during this era.
“Jesus in 3/4 Time”-J.D. Souther https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5p2-NvgvkAo
ReplyDeleteJ.D. Souther’s “Jesus in 3/4 Time” sounds a lot like Elton John’s music with the soulful singing and the piano accompaniment in the background. But as the article mentioned, I could hear a lot of blues and bluegrass influence in the way that he sung. It sounds as if he’s lamenting to Jesus with his melancholy tone and long notes, especially because he mentions often that he’d dedicated his whole life to Jesus; whether or not it was worth it in the end seems to be unknown to his audience. Apparently, songs that are written in 3/4 time signature are often more sad in nature and for this piece it seems to come into play.
“Turn Back the Pages”-Stephen Stills https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivbaep_7Suk
Stephen Still’s “Turn Back The Pages” is the kind of music that I’d hear my dad play in the car with it’s apparent rock influence with fast paced beat. It’s got more of an upbeat feeling like I’m driving on the freeway near the coastline with the wind blowing through my hair. The song basically tells you that life’s too short to focus on people who are out of your life, and instead of wasting your time thinking about them you just have to keep moving forward.
“Heart of Gold”-Neil Young
Neil Young’s “Heart of Gold” has an interesting guitar riff in it’s intro and reminds me of a very simplified version of Jimi Hendrix’s guitar playing style. It’s got heavy bluegrass influence with the harmonica and singing style, and it sounds exactly like a lovesick cry from a lonely man. It has quite a reliable message of someone who’s just searching for their other half, their perfect match in the big world we live in. It’s safe to say that we’ve all been on a search for a heart of gold in this lonely world.
The first song I chose to listen to from the playlist was “For What It’s Worth” by Buffalo Springfield. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80_39eAx3z8 The time this song was published was during some of the most melodic, atmospheric, and subtly political American popular music written by those associated with Laurel Canyon. The artists played acoustic guitars and were mislabeled to be “soft rock” or “folk rock.” This type of music included blues, rock and roll, jazz, Latin, country and western, bluegrass and folk. This song is said to be about hippie protests and riots that occurred during the early 70s. More specifically, this song was written in response to the Sunset Strip riots between police and young people. It is often considered an anti-war song and a part of the series of counterculture-era songs. The next song I chose to listen to was “Rock and Roll Woman.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QDpdS3Atyo This song is said to be written about a woman named Grace Slick. However it also seems to be about a woman who represents happiness. The lyrics say that it is comforting for this type of woman to be with the singer to help him and care for him. However, the song mentions that this type of woman is rare: “She’s just hard to find.” This woman could also possibly be a metaphor for enlightenment. The last song I chose to listen to was “On the Way Home” written by Neil Young. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSnCUidmfEc This song is about an experience that brings him closer to someone. It seems to be a very emotionally powered song. It’s saying that instead of us trying to see through someone, we can discover who they are by the way they give their love to us.
ReplyDelete(1): “Hotel California” - Eagles
ReplyDelete“Hotel California” by Eagles is a mellow rock song about a place that on the outside seems like heaven, but underneath is a trap. The song feels psychedelic with hypnotizing guitar playing, which fits the theme of the song. It begins with a single guitar, like the narrator is searching around somewhere. The chorus of residents of Hotel California calling out to the narrator of how its “such a lovely place” gives me eerie vibes. As the song goes on, the narrator finds themselves trapped within in the hotel, unable to truly find an escape.
(2): “Do Right Woman” - The Flying Burrito Brothers
“Do Right Woman” is a pretty feminist song in my opinion. The main message is about how women are just as human as their significant others and how they need to be treated with respect. It is a rather uplifting song for women, as the singers tells men they can’t expect women to be the perfect wife if they don’t make the effort to be a perfect husband.
(3): “You Turn Me On, I’m a Radio” - Joni Mitchell
“You Turn Me On, I’m a Radio” by Joni Mitchell caught my eye because of the title of the song. Listening to it, there are so many sexual innuendos that make me raise my eyebrows. The song is basically is just a giant metaphor to being turned on sexually and wanting to do the devil’s tango. Women were usually portrayed as innocent and pure, so a woman singing about having a sexual drive is something rather new. It’s not only sexual, but a mix of romance within.
https://youtu.be/iGR_bUYe-PA
ReplyDelete"Sit Down I Think I Love You" is a love song, talking about how one guy wants to become this woman's lover. From the title of the song, aspects of the title is something that one might say in a conversation. "Sit down" is kine of like a command and I think that this song is showing that this man wants to tell this woman that he thinks he's in love with her. There are a couple of beats where there is a guitar solo in place between the bridge and the chorus. This song had a very mellow tone to it which is something that I like. I also liked the overall theme of the song as it pertains to love which is what I like listening to.
https://youtu.be/4v8KEbQA8kw
The Eagles was a very popular rock band but they created a song that was totally different than a normal rock song. "Take It Easy" was very upbeat song yet it still had a gentle tone to it. This song talks about taking things easy and that there is no rush to doing things. I think this song is a metaphor for life because you shouldn't rush things in life. Some things take time and you just need to have a little patience for it to come around. This song is written in the context of a potential love song. It talks about a relationship and taking things easy within it. I really liked this song and it was interesting to listen to a "non-rock" song from this popular band.
https://youtu.be/wSL1yWOhHoQ
"Go Where You Wanna Go" gave me more of a country vibe than any other style. From the opening tune, it sounded like something that you would hear in the South. Sung by The Mamas & The Papas, this song captures the aspect of leaving someone to do the thing you really want to do. The lyrics, "Do what you wanna do / With whoever you wanna do it with," represents the freedom that the narrator(s) are trying to get at. It shows that maybe even in the darkest times, this person (or people) are setting you out into the world to doing what you put your mind to. From the title of the song, it sounds like something that we can all takeaway from: the thought of doing what you want to do most is one of the most important things that your life has to offer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vpgoNDi71Q
ReplyDelete“One of These Nights” by the Eagles is a rock song with a good calming beat that is continuous throughout the song. The story of the song addresses a romantic interest. In one verse it says, “I’ve been searching for the daughter of the Devil himself / I’ve been searching for an angel in white.” The main person in this song seems very attracted to this other person, but they will hopefully tell them “one of these nights.” The song starts off with a few of the instruments quietly playing and slowly, more seem to join leading up to the actual singing. Once the singing starts, the instruments seem to have a nice beat and they also come to sing together and make amazing harmonies.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HmzN1p5q2sY
“For Free” by Joni Mitchell talks about the story of a New York sidewalk musician. Mitchell starts off the song by playing beautifully on the piano and this entire song’s instrumentals is only the piano. Mitchell has a very sweet, calming voice and it is shown in this song. The song’s story talks about a sidewalk musician who plays for everyone for free which is where the title comes from. While he played really well, the song states that, “Nobody stopped to hear him.” The lines following it says, “Though he played so sweet and high / They knew he had never / Been on their T.V.” This shows how hard it is for people, especially singers, to catch their big break. While this sidewalk musician played really well, no one cared to look at him since he wasn’t already famous. The song talks about how hard he tried and while he was playing “for free,” no one really cared.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJ58TVYNFro
“Something to Talk About” by Bonnie Raitt is a blues rock song and the story of the song is based around gossip. The people in this song live in a small town and because of that, gossip can spread fast. A singer in this town is rumored to be having an affair with another guy and because of the rumors, the other people in the town ask to do it even if they hadn’t just to give them “something to talk about.” This song is pretty upbeat but it also has a calming tune. Raitt has a strong, powerful voice that is shown a lot throughout the song.
https://youtu.be/r8jC1lRZGTU
ReplyDelete“Ballad of Easy Rider” sounded like a happy tune; one that you listen to while on the road driving somewhere far off. The tempo is not too slow or too fast. This song explains the wanting of freedom and when one finally reaches the point of freedom, one can realize there is a price. The price is that freedom can come with terrible loneliness.
https://youtu.be/wIZt2uyu4-4
“Crazy Love” by Poco is a country rock song with has a slower tempo and a soothing tone. The strum of the guitar in the beginning sets the mood for the emotions of the lyrics and their story. The harmonies was another prominent feature of this song because it allows for a richer sound. The lyrics represent a man who is mentally breaking away from the memory of an old lover. It shows the hope that is wanted in order to not become trapped.
https://youtu.be/eAR_Ff5A8Rk
“You’ve Got a Friend” by Carole King offers an uplifting message that whenever you feel alone or down, a friend will be there for you no matter what. Wherever you are, she will have your back to ensure of your happiness. The deep chords of the piano and soft strums of an acoustic guitar makes the song sound composed and organized. It is a soft rock and folk song that leaves an emotional message.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94bdMSCdw20
ReplyDelete“Big Yellow Taxi” by Joni Mitchell is an upbeat song with a guitar part paired with Mitchell’s beautiful voice. The message of the song is not as upbeat as the song suggests as a line that repeats many times is “They paved paradise, and put up a parking lot”. Living in Hawaii, I instantly saw the connection to this song and I thought that was very unexpected. It is almost as if Joni Mitchell hides the meaning of the song with how catchy she makes the song sound.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-aK6JnyFmk
“California Dreamin” is a catchy song by The Mamas and Papas. The song is about wishing for California and the party image of the west coast during this time in America. I could very much see how this song would be very popular as it captures the carefree feelings people had at this time. This song reminded me a lot of The Beach Boys.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pbn6a0AFfnM
“Both Sides Now” is another song by Joni Mitchell but more somber than the other one is. The song talks about heartbreak and love. Again the combination of Joni Mitchell’s voice and strum of the guitar make the song sound smooth. Her lyrics are very authentic and captures the feelings of losing a relationship with someone. It has a hopeful yet also sad tone to it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80_39eAx3z8
ReplyDeleteFirst song I listened to was “For What Its Worth” by Buffalo Springfield. The song was released in 1966 and has a pretty easy going and laid back flow to it. There are longer pauses between lyrics which allows the listener to just enjoy the song and really vibe to it. The song has a lot of moving parts from vocals and instruments but everything seems to just mesh and work together. The songs lyrics suggest that its an anti war song but it could also be talking about some of the other major events happening during that time. The lyrics encourage evryone to stoop and take a minute to look around and see whats happening around them
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQOaUnSmJr8
The second song I listened to was “Teach Your Children Well” by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. The song was released in 1969 and is a more country sounding track. The song has a more sweeter and soft feel to it almost as if the artists are singing a lullaby to a child. As the name suggests the songs lyrics are about teaching your children or the next generation well. But then in the second to last stanza the narrative shifts to being the children teaching there parents well which was very intresting.
The last song I listened to was “Running On Empty” by Jackson Brown, released
1977. The song falls under the genre of rock but in my opinion it has some country sound to it. Its definelty a softer sounding rock song and has more pop like vocals. I recognized this song from the movies that it has been featured in. Pretty much all of the movies that this song is in use it during scenes when the main charchter(s) are driving which is funny because the song is basically about driving. The song has a thrilling feel to it that almost makes you wanna go out and adventure.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-aK6JnyFmk
ReplyDeleteThe first song that I listened to was “California Dreamin”. I actually really liked the song as it was very upbeat and had a very catchy tune to the song. The song was actually released in 1965 meaning that it was apart of the 1960s. The tune of the song is very familiar and seems like a very popular song. The song is made up of one person singing and the next people harmonizing the same lyrics. Overall the song was very catchy and I would listen to it again.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BciS5krYL80
The Next song that I listened to was “Hotel California”. Instantly I recognized the song and the song still has a huge legacy until today having 23 million views on youtube. When looking at the lyrics and analyzing the song I realized that the song is actually pretty sarcastic and exposes the music industry. It shows that the music industry may seen really good, but it actually really dark with all the influences and alcohol.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGR_bUYe-PA
The last song that I listened to was “Sit Down I Think I Love You”. I thought that the sound had a really good rhythm to it. To me it sounded like something that the beatles would sing. It sounded like a group of singers together harmonizing. There wasn’t an apparent meaning to the song. It just sounds like a person loves this women and just doesn’t want to let her go.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=80_39eAx3z8
ReplyDeleteThe first song that I listened to was, “For What It’s Worth”. I thought that the song had a really good rhythmic sound, and it was very smooth. The vocals perfectly matched the instrumental. The instrumental alone was also something that was pretty catchy and easy to learn. It is nice because it is a song that is simple but does not sound oversimplified at the same time.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=bkvfjXCoD9I
The second song that I listened to was, “Kind Woman”. This song was incredibly smooth, and easy on the ears to listen to. It had a constant slow pace which was nice and allowed for the listener to really just sit back and enjoy the sound for what it was. It also allowed for you to really listen to the song and not have to strain to hear the lyrics. It featured breaks between singing to which let the instrumental really sit in.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=s8EUL-O3hRA
The third song that I listened to was, “Expecting to Fly”. This was another song that was pretty slow, but this one has a more emotional sound to it. In this song the instrumental kind of overpowered the lyrics and I could not really understand, but I think it contributed to the more sad feeling of the song. Especially at the end of the song where they had the solo and then the fade out, that was something that kind of solidified those emotions.
ReplyDeletehttps://m.youtube.com/watch?v=80_39eAx3z8
The first song I listened to was, “For What It’s Worth” by, Buffalo Springfield. This song was very simple and easy going but the lyrics were actually more deep than that. It’s a slower song that starts off with a guitar then other instruments begin to chime in along with the drums. The song is about protestors and strife that’s been between people keeping them a apart. Nobody wants to communicate and actually find a solution, everyone just wants their side to overcome the other side. But wha the narrator is realizing is that this method of protests will never work and violence will just continue which is what he means when he says, “You better stop/Hey, what’s that sound?/Everybody look, what’s going down?”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bkvfjXCoD9I
The second song I listened to was another song by Buffalo Springfield, “Kind Woman.” This song almost reminds me of the blues a little bit because how it’s about love and yearning for this one girl that they love. It’s also another slow song but this time instead of a guitar the piano is the main instrument. The song is a love song about this guy describing this woman he has fallen for. Then he continues to beg for her in way when he says, “Kind woman/Don’t leave me lonely tonight/Please say it’s all right.”
https://youtu.be/4v8KEbQA8kw
The third song I listened to was, “Take It Easy” by, the Eagles. This song was more upbeat than the other two songs I listened to. It starts off strong with the guitar and has an upbeat rhythm to it. This song is nice and lighthearted about just doing it, no matter what may happen if they just got each other it’ll be okay. Which is what I got from his lyrics when he said, “Come one baby, don’t say maybe/I gotta know if your sweet love/is gonna save me.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-aK6JnyFmk
ReplyDeleteI listened to “California Dreamin” which is a song about leaving his cold home town and going to sunny California. This song was from 1965. This song overall was good and had a memorable melody that you’ll catch yourself humming. I also think the message was relatable about wanting to go where the grass is greener and moving away from where you’re from.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BciS5krYL80
The next song I listened to was “Hotel California”. I didnt realize it before but I’ve definitely heard this song. It’s one of those songs that you scream in the car going 80 on the freeway at night with the windows down. I never really looked at the lyrics, but they’re not as positive as the energy associated with the song and have the ses of alcohol and drugs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJ58TVYNFro
The last song I listened to was “Something to Talk About”. This song is about a singer in this town who is having an affair with another guy. The people in the town are all nosy and need something to talk about. I love songs with this kind of theme for some reason. For example rumor has it by Adele or rumors by zayn or even the country song rumor. I find them so interesting to listen to for some reason
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIEV1OanDGY
ReplyDelete“All I really want to do” by The Byrds exemplifies the close relationship aspect of Laurel Canyon. The lyrics “All I really want to do, is baby, be friends with you” may not show the lustful feelings present in Laurel Canyon, but the article mentioned that almost everyone was friends with everyone else, so I feel like this song is an example of a song written about these feelings of comradery.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QDpdS3Atyo
“Rock & Roll Woman” by Buffalo Springfield is about a real woman, Grace Slick. According to one of the members of the band, they came up with the song at David Crosby’s place as they jammed out together. This song’s background and lyrical content, praising Slick, shows that the musicians of Laurel Canyon were constantly inspired by each other, and that no song truly belongs to one band since every other seems to be involved in one way or another.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4v8KEbQA8kw
“Take it Easy” by the Eagles has lyrics talking about relaxing and “taking it easy” while finding someone to love. The song may at first seem like a man dealing with his own sexual frustration, referring to 7 women in the beginning and another one on the flatbed. However, the 7 women in the beginning actually refer to the 7 days of the week which the character must go through, while the single woman on her flatbed refers to someone slowing down and finding what they need. Like in the citizens Laurel Canyon, the main character is laid back in their pursuit of free love. The music also sounds vaguely country like, probably because the Canyon was a melting pot of different musical stylings.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94bdMSCdw20
ReplyDeleteThe first song I listened to was, “Big Yellow Taxi”, by Joni Mitchell. It’s a higher tempo and upbeat song with a noticeable guitar strum. The song talks about city life. Jon Mitchell kind of praises the paradise that once was to be the countryside. She talks about the country being covered with roads and parking lots which is something none of us really like in Hawaii especially. Her voice is soothing and goes well with the guitar. The strumming makes it sound like a more country or folk song which I like.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJ58TVYNFro
Next song I listened to was “Something to Talk About” by Bonnie Raitt. Which sounds more like country just like Joni Mitchell’s songs. The imagery in the video shows a little bit of homosexuality, romance, and old couples dancing. She’s definitely shined the light on the less talked about topics on sex and the imagery matched her voice and tone. The guitar solo and drums adds a more rock and even a blues tone which is something that I enjoyed. I can’t put a finger on what exactly this genre of music is but it’s definitely a mix of many, both an acoustic and electric guitar, drum set, and belting.
https://youtu.be/4v8KEbQA8kw
The next song was “Take It Easy” by The Eagles, a group my grandparents talk about. I can see why. My grandma is a country lover and is partially Native American, I’m sure she can relate to this group’s sound. It’s soothing and beautiful but isn’t too soft and not too bold. They talk about the road, women, and the troubles of the world which sounds like a classic country song to me!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFQKvtbD6Kw
ReplyDeleteRunning on Empty by Jackson Browne encapsulates the sound of a never- ending journey through its driving piano chords and playful guitar riffs. Browne sings about taking a trip with no clear aim or final destination, but rather one of soul-searching. Lines like “You know I don’t even know what I’m hoping to find / Running into the sun, but I’m running behind” convey this feeling of uncertainty and excitement that was characteristic of those who sought out Laurel Canyon.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Lk2KHajp4Y
Almost Cut my Hair by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young feels like a quintessential Rock ballad for the Laurel Canyon era. The lyrics of the song weigh conformity and normalcy against freedom. The lead singer wonders why he has such a strong desire to abandon societal conventions and concludes that “I feel like I owe it to someone.” Thus, he makes his way into “that sunny southern weather” where he sees an opportunity to be free from judgements and regulations. It seems that Laurel Canyon offered this kind of environment to its inhabitants.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQj6h8KpkiQ
“Free man in Paris by Joni Mitchell has the sound of early indie rock and folk, musical styles that were characteristic of Laurel Canyon according to the article. Like the two above songs, this tune portrays a man who believes in the allure of free living. Mitchell talks about his days in Paris where he held an occupation that allowed him to do things his own way and thus felt “unfettered and alive.” The lyrics are then tied to the music industry with the line “Stoking the star maker machinery / behind the popular song.” Whether the song is meant to portray a musical artist or a producer in Paris, Joni clearly connects song-making with freedom.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYGK3GvgaII
ReplyDeleteThe first song that I listened to was “When Will i be Loved” by Linda Ronstadt. This song sort of took me y surprise, as it was not what I was expecting. This was a very slow and dramatic song, and it sort of had a country twang to it based off of the vocals and instrumentals. This song was based on a women who has had trouble in relationships lately, for example, she has been cheated on. The main point of the song is her waiting for the right person to come around. I really liked this song because although it was very repetitive it had a really smooth and calming tune to it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=saAoTPXcPSg
The second song I listened to was “So You want to be a Rock ‘N’ Roll Star,” by the Byrds. This song was very different compared to “When Will i be Loved,” because it was a much faster pace and it was purely rock. I think this song was about taking chances and the artist used the example of pursuing their dream of being a rock n roll star. One of my big takeaways from this song is that taking a chance can take a lot of work and you may not succeed, but if you do you will gain a lot.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIEV1OanDGY
The last song I listened to was “All I Really Want to do” also by the Byrds. This song kind of gave me hippy vibes, possibly because of the tambourines played throughout the song, the song in general also had a very freeing tone to it, which is basically what the hippies stood for. This song was basically about just living your life, not causing and trouble or hatred, and just live. So after analyzing the lyrics I strongly believe that this song was based off of the hippy’s lifestyle.5
The Eagles- Life in the Fast Lane
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UprIfC4_3rY
This song opens with an almost funky sounding or bendy guitar solo that repeats throughout the song. Based on the title and lyrics, it is quite clear what the song is about. It captures the spirit of the 1970s, similar to “Born to be Wild.” This energy of fast paced living is matched by a fast paced beat and sense of speed throughout the song. In the later part of the song, there is an epic electric guitar solo that can get anyone moving.
Jackson Browne - Running on Empty
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdHg4QEmBvk
This song jumps right into speed. This has become an anthem for late night drives, and having that feeling of reckless youth flowing through you, or living life to the fullest. Browne, somehow, is able to really capture youth into this song. When I listened to this, I could visualize that long 1970s brown hair blowing in the wind while driving in an open top car or something. Browne emulates that 1970s vibe of speed once again and living life without worries, like when he talks about running on an empty tank but still going anyways.
Neil Young - Harvest Moon
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2MtEsrcTTs
This song seems to be a classic 1970s hit, and I understand why. It captures that bare foot, natural- granola vibe very well. When I listened to this song, I could visualize a bunch of hippies playing acoustic guitar together in a circle. Looking at the lyrics, at first I thought it was a song about nature because of its title, but came to realize it’s a love song. The second guitar that strums down every few bars adds a beautiful dream-like flow to the song, unleashing a positive feeling of ease every time Young plays it.
ReplyDeleteThe first song i listened to was “Neil Young’s “Heart of Gold” is such a yearning, heart felt song. The country sound that the singers voice and the instruments has also keeps the song grounded. This song is about a man looking for a partner with a good heart and good intentions. It’s overall a very nice, saddening song.
The next song I listened to was “Something to Talk About” by Bonnie Raitt. This song talks about being accused of having a relationship with her close friend and then eventually the singer does actually start falling for the friend and wants to be with them. I love the idea of that like “give them something to talk about”. Like not caring about what people think or have to say. Overall this is a song that exudes confidence and with its rock undertones it definitely stands out.
The last song I listened to was “Kind Woman” by Buffalo Springfield. This song is very slow and sentimental with the sound of piano and the troubled voice of the singer. The singer talks about this woman he wants and how he doesn’t want her to leave him alone. It definitely has a feeling of desperation and almost begging this woman to stay with him which makes it a sad song to listen to.
Jase
ReplyDeleteAfter reading the article, I made connections to the song For What it’s Worth by Buffalo Springfield. The acoustic guitar set the tone and pace for this song. It is clear how this type of music was known as “fold music” instead of “soft rock.” Of course, in this song, there is a protest-like movement embedded within the lyrics. It is more apparent when the lyrics mention the thousands of people marching outside and holding up signs. This song is considered one of the most popular songs created in its album and by its band. The second song I chose was Rock and Roll Woman by Buffalo Springfield. Already in the title, this song might be about standing up for your women’s rights. This song is noticeably shorter than any other song. After listening to this song, there is not much of a protest movement like the first song I chose to listen to. This woman in the song is free to do as she pleases. The song describes all the good qualities she has and ends the song, letting the listener know that the woman in the song is not oblivious to her world. Lastly, I chose to listen to Expecting to Fly. The band, Buffalo Springfield, was no ordinary group of people. They did so much together, from creating music to drugs to sleeping with each other. After listening to the song, the most significant connection I made back to the article was that Expecting to Fly was about the relationships between the band members. After years of being together, sharing each other’s love, there was most likely a time that someone had to leave or passed away. This song says how it is challenging for the other person in the relationship to experience life and love, to lose it all; left in tears as they watched their significant additional leave. The tone of this song was melancholy. The melancholy feeling of this song is that in life, they must move on no matter how hard it may be. After reading and listening to my three choices of songs under the Buffalo Springfield playlist, these are my thoughts.