In looking up the definition of music, you'll find that there are a couple definitions. The first and most prominent is (1) vocal, instrumental, or mechanical sounds having rhythm, melody, or harmony. And the second definition is (2) an agreeable sound
So, it is technically accurate to say rap is music. But because it is not an agreeable sound to me, it is not music to me.
I can really appreciate a lot of other forms of music. My dad is a musician and taught music to young people. I heard only "early" music (baroque, classical and romantic) through the age of 4. I loved Mozart right away. I think it was because of the light and beautiful melodies that are so prevalent in his work.
I remember when I was in kindergarten and first grade, my baby sister playing The Beatles. I liked their songs a lot. Simply put, the melodies are sweet. With time, I learned to like many different types of rock and roll. Hard, soft, acid, even heavy metal. Blues, and certain types of Jazz and Country have great qualities too.
I feel for two groups of people:
(1) People who grew up from the 90s onward. As time goes on, it seems that less and less really good music is getting published by the big record companies. So, little if any is available in the main stream. This results in many young people never hearing truly wonderful new music.
Occasionally, individuals in their teens and 20s stumble on this reality. Sometimes it starts by hearing a great young band live one night. In studying them you learn about what influenced their style and you realize there is this other world of music and groups that are light years better than most of what is promoted today.
(2) The singers, songwriters and the other folks in truly gifted groups or bands that never get that "big break" because the big record companies have sold their souls. They care more about making money than supporting and promoting gorgeous new music.
Off the top of my head, I can think of three absolutely amazing and remarkable rock and roll groups that are 1000 times better than most of what is out there today. Yet, they are largely unknown.
They are:
Judy Tzuke
Screamin Cheetah Wheelies
The Feeling
Listen to their music. Read their lyrics. This stuff will hit you hard! It is wonderful! Spread the word! And maybe someday the big record companies will begin to address the huge disservice they are doing to humanity. Great music really enriches each and every one of us every minute we get to listen to it.
Kathy writes about a variety of music and lifestyle topics in her blog: http://www.wrappedbeautifully.com/scarves-now/wb-in-music/
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