Monday, 28 September 2009
Thursday, 24 September 2009
Music Video Theory
Chosen theorist: Andrew Goodwin
About the theorist
Andrew Goodwin suggested that music videos have to have certain key features or at least a majority of them in order to be recognisable and successful. He has identified a number of key features in music videos. The key features that he believes is that there is a relationship between the lyrics and the visuals, and a relationship between the music and the visuals. This relationship is shown through visual illustrating, amplifying or by contradicting the lyrics or music. Another key feature is close-ups of the main artist or vocalist. He also believes that the practice of obtaining sexual gratification by look at a sexual objects or acts play a part in music videos; this term is often referred to as Voyeurism. The final key feature is that intertextual references arise to other media products present. He says that music videos are often constructed by the link between the visuals and the song plus the artist. Relationships are built between these in the video, and the close-ups of the artists gives them the representation and publicity they require. Voyeurism is used to increase the video’s attractiveness, particularly to males, whilst intertextuality is often employed in humorous videos.
My opinion
I think music and visuals have a strong link anyways therefore should relate to one another, I also agree that lots of close ups should be used as this helps portray the artists image and publicise them as an artist rather than just another music video out on the market. I think voyeurism is particularly shown in R & B music and they rely heavily on the appearance of a women’s body to make their music video attractive especially to attract the male audience. Goodwin also states that music videos demonstrate certain characteristics linked with the genre of the music, girl groups would usually include a dance routine example The Saturdays ‘I just cant get enough’ and Girls aloud ‘Biology’. Or say if it was a rock band they also tend to have a staged performance element to it. I strongly think that there should be a relationship between lyrics/music and visuals as this gives connection and helps portray the storyline or narrative.
Analysis of Chosen video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lm7XVOeXf2U
Taking back sunday - You're so last summer
I have decided to analysis a music video by the band that I have chosen to make my music video to. Within the first few seconds Goodwin’s theory appears present about certain genres having certain characteristics. Goodwin says that most rock bands have a performance element and this video is no different the video is based on the band performing to the camera. Close-ups of the main singer are present once again proving Goodwin’s theory correct, This close up gives a close view of what they are wearing portraying them in a clear light it also gives a personal approach that the viewer can have with the performer. This music vido is particularly interesting as it is of two artists that have came together to produce a song, Taking band Sunday are a traditional rock band whereas the rap artist that is featured in the video conveys convention that are traditional for rap artists, the close up shots really help portray these singularly as taking band Sundays outfits are very dull and their make is very black with eyeliner where as ’Flavor flav’ is wearing baggy clothing, with a gold chain around his neck showing the music genre he is normally associated with. The main body of the video portrays the band performing the song on stage, while Flavor Flav and Adam Lazzara (Taking band Sundays main singer) alternatively sing the lyrics. The video concludes with a shot showing the band members standing in the street on which the music video opened, and, one by one, disappearing, until Lazzara alone remains. When ‘Flavor Flav’ and ‘Adam Lazzara’ are singing this is mainly when the close-ups are being used. Even though this is a all male group no dance routines are present yet I don’t think this would be appropriate for rock music due to the heavy baseline and upbeat rhythm. I don’t think the lyrics really correspond with the visuals as there isn’t really a storyline played amongst this it is mainly performance based however through what we can see we pick up emotions that they may be feeling.
Applying Goodwin's theory to our music video:
Andrew Goodwin's theory applies to our music video that we are to make. This is because, as the band that we have chosen to use (Taking Back Sunday) has a genre of rock, we have decided to include a performance within our footage. We are also going to assure that our visuals have a relationship with the lyrics of the song, these will be illustrating what is being said in the story behind the lyrics, this will make it easier to the viewer to understand the song and know what it is about. We have analyzed the lyrics to the song we have chosen (Cute Without The E) and have several original ideas. Another way in which our music video will support Goodwin's theory is having close-ups of the two main singers, as this is what all music videos include it is vital that we have several of these included within our video. We will also have close ups of objects such as the drum sticks/drum kit when it is being played and the guitars. We have discussed many close ups which will add a professional tough to our video.
About the theorist
Andrew Goodwin suggested that music videos have to have certain key features or at least a majority of them in order to be recognisable and successful. He has identified a number of key features in music videos. The key features that he believes is that there is a relationship between the lyrics and the visuals, and a relationship between the music and the visuals. This relationship is shown through visual illustrating, amplifying or by contradicting the lyrics or music. Another key feature is close-ups of the main artist or vocalist. He also believes that the practice of obtaining sexual gratification by look at a sexual objects or acts play a part in music videos; this term is often referred to as Voyeurism. The final key feature is that intertextual references arise to other media products present. He says that music videos are often constructed by the link between the visuals and the song plus the artist. Relationships are built between these in the video, and the close-ups of the artists gives them the representation and publicity they require. Voyeurism is used to increase the video’s attractiveness, particularly to males, whilst intertextuality is often employed in humorous videos.
My opinion
I think music and visuals have a strong link anyways therefore should relate to one another, I also agree that lots of close ups should be used as this helps portray the artists image and publicise them as an artist rather than just another music video out on the market. I think voyeurism is particularly shown in R & B music and they rely heavily on the appearance of a women’s body to make their music video attractive especially to attract the male audience. Goodwin also states that music videos demonstrate certain characteristics linked with the genre of the music, girl groups would usually include a dance routine example The Saturdays ‘I just cant get enough’ and Girls aloud ‘Biology’. Or say if it was a rock band they also tend to have a staged performance element to it. I strongly think that there should be a relationship between lyrics/music and visuals as this gives connection and helps portray the storyline or narrative.
Analysis of Chosen video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lm7XVOeXf2U
Taking back sunday - You're so last summer
I have decided to analysis a music video by the band that I have chosen to make my music video to. Within the first few seconds Goodwin’s theory appears present about certain genres having certain characteristics. Goodwin says that most rock bands have a performance element and this video is no different the video is based on the band performing to the camera. Close-ups of the main singer are present once again proving Goodwin’s theory correct, This close up gives a close view of what they are wearing portraying them in a clear light it also gives a personal approach that the viewer can have with the performer. This music vido is particularly interesting as it is of two artists that have came together to produce a song, Taking band Sunday are a traditional rock band whereas the rap artist that is featured in the video conveys convention that are traditional for rap artists, the close up shots really help portray these singularly as taking band Sundays outfits are very dull and their make is very black with eyeliner where as ’Flavor flav’ is wearing baggy clothing, with a gold chain around his neck showing the music genre he is normally associated with. The main body of the video portrays the band performing the song on stage, while Flavor Flav and Adam Lazzara (Taking band Sundays main singer) alternatively sing the lyrics. The video concludes with a shot showing the band members standing in the street on which the music video opened, and, one by one, disappearing, until Lazzara alone remains. When ‘Flavor Flav’ and ‘Adam Lazzara’ are singing this is mainly when the close-ups are being used. Even though this is a all male group no dance routines are present yet I don’t think this would be appropriate for rock music due to the heavy baseline and upbeat rhythm. I don’t think the lyrics really correspond with the visuals as there isn’t really a storyline played amongst this it is mainly performance based however through what we can see we pick up emotions that they may be feeling.
Applying Goodwin's theory to our music video:
Andrew Goodwin's theory applies to our music video that we are to make. This is because, as the band that we have chosen to use (Taking Back Sunday) has a genre of rock, we have decided to include a performance within our footage. We are also going to assure that our visuals have a relationship with the lyrics of the song, these will be illustrating what is being said in the story behind the lyrics, this will make it easier to the viewer to understand the song and know what it is about. We have analyzed the lyrics to the song we have chosen (Cute Without The E) and have several original ideas. Another way in which our music video will support Goodwin's theory is having close-ups of the two main singers, as this is what all music videos include it is vital that we have several of these included within our video. We will also have close ups of objects such as the drum sticks/drum kit when it is being played and the guitars. We have discussed many close ups which will add a professional tough to our video.
Wednesday, 23 September 2009
Initial group Ideas
As soon as the group came together we thought of 3 songs that we would like to make our music video to; Panic at the Disco 'Lying Is The Most Fun', The Used 'Earthquake' and Taking Back Sunday 'Cute Without The E'. Panic at the Disco already has an official music video so to avoid copyright issues we decided not to do this song. We listened to The Used and Taking Back Sunday several times and all decided that Taking Back Sunday was the best band for us to study.
After deciding on the band and the song we researched the artist, finding out their target group, this is teenagers from 15-20 and the genre of music is 'rock' however the band is quite 'emo'. As we are wanting our music video to be successful we made a questionnaire targeting the same age group and asked them 10 questions about music videos in order to widen our knowledge of what rock fans would expect to see within a music video.
Costume and mise en scene is very important within our music video as this was stated by our target group. The boys in the group are going to wear black suits with white shirts, and the girls are going to wear big black eyelashes, dark makeup, black tutu's and ripped tights and ripped black tops, this is to make them look mysterious and scary in order to fit the genre of music.
As our target group specified in the questionnaire, it is important to have some performance footage within the music video. As 32/80 stated this was important we are going to include us as the band playing instruments on the school stage with an audience. The camera will be panned around the room showing the crowd go crazy for the band. This would make it seam like it is a real gig. We are going to film most of our video outside as we can achieve natural darkness, this would also fit in with the genre of music.
After deciding on the band and the song we researched the artist, finding out their target group, this is teenagers from 15-20 and the genre of music is 'rock' however the band is quite 'emo'. As we are wanting our music video to be successful we made a questionnaire targeting the same age group and asked them 10 questions about music videos in order to widen our knowledge of what rock fans would expect to see within a music video.
Costume and mise en scene is very important within our music video as this was stated by our target group. The boys in the group are going to wear black suits with white shirts, and the girls are going to wear big black eyelashes, dark makeup, black tutu's and ripped tights and ripped black tops, this is to make them look mysterious and scary in order to fit the genre of music.
As our target group specified in the questionnaire, it is important to have some performance footage within the music video. As 32/80 stated this was important we are going to include us as the band playing instruments on the school stage with an audience. The camera will be panned around the room showing the crowd go crazy for the band. This would make it seam like it is a real gig. We are going to film most of our video outside as we can achieve natural darkness, this would also fit in with the genre of music.
List of Roles
List of Roles
LauraHair and make-up
Actor amongst the storyline – Girlfriend
Costume organiser
SophieHair and make-up
Band Member: Drummer
Actor amongst the storyline
Costume organiser
ConnorBand member- Lead singer and guitarist
Actor amongst storyline- Boyfriend
JamesBand member- Second vocalist and Lead guitarist
Actor amongst the storyline – ‘Mistress’
We will all participate in filming the music video sharing all the roles involved with the camera. Friends or Family are being used for extras amongst the video and the audience to our performance.
Tuesday, 22 September 2009
Lyrics to the chosen song
Taking Back Sunday- Cute Without The E
Your lipstick, his collar… don't bother angel
I know exactly what goes on
When everything you'll get is
Everything that you've wanted, princess
(well which would you prefer)
My finger on the trigger, or(
me face down, down across your floor)
Me face down, down across your floor
(me face down, down across your floor)
Well just so long as this thing's loaded
And will you tell all your friends
You've got your gun to my head
This all was only wishful thinkin,
This all was only wishful thinkin
And will you tell all your friends
You've got your gun to my head
This all was only wishful thinkin,
This all was only wishful thinkin
Let's go...
Don't bother trying to explain angel
I know exactly what goes on when you're on and
How about I'm outside of your window
(how about I'm outside of your window)
Watchin him keep the details covered
You're such a sucker
(you're such a sucker)
For a sweet talker, yeah
And will you tell all your friends
You've got your gun to my head
This all was only wishful thinkin,
This all was only wishful thinkin
(the only thing that I regret is that i, I never let you hold me back)
And will you tell all your friendsYou've got your gun to my head
This all was only wishful thinkin,
This all was only wishful thinkin
Hoping for the best just hoping nothing happens
A thousand clever lines unread on clever napkins
I wil never ask if you don't ever tell me
I know you well enough to know you never loved me
Hoping for the best just hoping nothing happens
A thousand clever lines unread on clever napkins
I will never ask if you don't ever tell me
I know you well enough to know you never loved me
Hoping for the best just hoping nothing happens
A thousand clever lines unread on clever napkins
I will never ask if you don't ever tell me
I know you well enough to know...
Why can't I feel anything
From anyone other than you?
Why can't I feel anything
From anyone other than you?
And all of this was all your fault
And all of this
(I stay jealous)
I stay wrecked and jealous for this,
For this simple reasonI just need to keep you in mind
As something larger than life
(she'll destroy us all before she's through and find a way to blame somebody else)
I stay wrecked and jealous for this,
For this simple reasonI just need to keep you in mind
As something larger than life
(she'll destroy us all before she's through and find a way to blame somebody else)
I stay wrecked and jealous for this,
For this simple reason
I just need to keep you in mind
As something larger than life!
Your lipstick, his collar… don't bother angel
I know exactly what goes on
When everything you'll get is
Everything that you've wanted, princess
(well which would you prefer)
My finger on the trigger, or(
me face down, down across your floor)
Me face down, down across your floor
(me face down, down across your floor)
Well just so long as this thing's loaded
And will you tell all your friends
You've got your gun to my head
This all was only wishful thinkin,
This all was only wishful thinkin
And will you tell all your friends
You've got your gun to my head
This all was only wishful thinkin,
This all was only wishful thinkin
Let's go...
Don't bother trying to explain angel
I know exactly what goes on when you're on and
How about I'm outside of your window
(how about I'm outside of your window)
Watchin him keep the details covered
You're such a sucker
(you're such a sucker)
For a sweet talker, yeah
And will you tell all your friends
You've got your gun to my head
This all was only wishful thinkin,
This all was only wishful thinkin
(the only thing that I regret is that i, I never let you hold me back)
And will you tell all your friendsYou've got your gun to my head
This all was only wishful thinkin,
This all was only wishful thinkin
Hoping for the best just hoping nothing happens
A thousand clever lines unread on clever napkins
I wil never ask if you don't ever tell me
I know you well enough to know you never loved me
Hoping for the best just hoping nothing happens
A thousand clever lines unread on clever napkins
I will never ask if you don't ever tell me
I know you well enough to know you never loved me
Hoping for the best just hoping nothing happens
A thousand clever lines unread on clever napkins
I will never ask if you don't ever tell me
I know you well enough to know...
Why can't I feel anything
From anyone other than you?
Why can't I feel anything
From anyone other than you?
And all of this was all your fault
And all of this
(I stay jealous)
I stay wrecked and jealous for this,
For this simple reasonI just need to keep you in mind
As something larger than life
(she'll destroy us all before she's through and find a way to blame somebody else)
I stay wrecked and jealous for this,
For this simple reasonI just need to keep you in mind
As something larger than life
(she'll destroy us all before she's through and find a way to blame somebody else)
I stay wrecked and jealous for this,
For this simple reason
I just need to keep you in mind
As something larger than life!
Audience Research
To broaden our research we decided to go out and meet our target group allowing them to express themselves, this would then allow us to see their expectations and ask them questions finding out more about what they like, as I feel their opinions are highly important when they are the ones that will be consuming the finished media product therefore it must attract and appeal to them.
Video 1
By filming our target audience while asking them several questions helped our group because we were able to analysis the videos in turn. From interviewing Kate we found out that her favourite music channel was Kerang, she watches this regularly and appreciates rock music. Her favourite band that plays on this music channel is 'Taking Back Sunday' she also states that her favourite song by this band is 'Cute Without The E'. Kate is the type of person that we would target our music video to; as well as different styles of people that share the same taste in music as her. As we know, Kate is a 'Taking Back Sunday' fan, this allows us to take advantage of this information allowing us to make a music video that would meet our target groups expectations.
Video 2
We also interviewed a group of teenagers all aged 16, this group in particularly were interested in rock genre and their dress sense really stood out to us therefore we may reflect this into the video as we feel it matches strongly with the genre of our band and chosen song. We found that this group mentions taking back Sunday which is going to be our chosen band. They also were fans of industrial music and mental. Kerrang was again mentioned and in the questionnaire this was also the most popular music channel amongst our questionnaire. We thought this was particularly good for our target group because they were musical and all played instruments.
Video 3
We decided to interview some friends of ours that all fit into the age category 15-20. The first question that we asked was 'what is you're favorite music channel?' this question was to firstly check that they would be the type of people we would aim our music video to (our target audience). All the boys stated that their favorite music channel to watch and listen to is Kerang. This is good for us as Taking Back Sunday (the band we have chosen to make our music video to). They all state that they watch it every day; this could mean that they are Taking Back Sunday fans as this band appears many times a day on this channel. Before even needing to ask them which band is their favorite; one boy states the song 'Cute Without The E' and then states the band as being their favorite on the channel. These boys are most defiantly someone we would target our music video to.
Video 4
We decided to ask the boys what costume would appeal to them within a music video. The boys state that within a rock music video they like to see lots of black and something that connentates with gothic. They like tight clothing such a lycra, PVC and leather; we took this comment on board but when other rock fans were asked what costumes would appeal to them they stated they would like anything thats black. This is easier for us as a group to achieve as lycra, PVC and leather clothing can get expensive. Therefore our costume will be black however, leather boots will be worn by the girls.
Monday, 21 September 2009
Analysis of chosen artist and genre
Chosen band: Taking Back Sunday
Song: Cute without the E Music video examples:
http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid9217788001?bctid=1113459260
http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid9217788001?bctid=690836278
Song: Cute without the E Music video examples:
http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid9217788001?bctid=1113459260
http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid9217788001?bctid=690836278
About the band
Taking back Sunday is an American rock band which was formed in 1999, and are still popular these days and continue to release new songs and albums. Their latest album is ‘New again’ which was released on the 2nd of June 2009. The current members are vocalist Adam Lazzara, guitarist/back-up vocalist Matthew Fazzi, guitarist Eddie Reyes, drummer Mark O'Connell, and bassist/back-up vocalist Matt Rubano. All together they have released four studio albums, their most succesful studio album was ‘Louder now’ this sold over 600,000 copies. Taking Back Sunday have many official websites, these give information such as tour dates, news on the band, photos of the band live, bio, the online store in which fans can purchase Taking Back Sunday merchandise and many more; this shows that they are a successful band still by keeping up with regular technology, as computers and the internet is seen as a big part of peoples lives these days and by they contacting their fans through this type of media shows they are a modern rock band. After taking part in gigs and live music concerts the band eventually signed with Victory Records who released in March of 2002 their debut full-length album. “Tell All Your Friends”; the record broke into the top 10 of the Bill board Magazine’s Independent chat; the group crisscrossed the United States getting dates and shows with more national acts, including Boxcar Racer, The Used and Jimmy Eat World.
Meet the band members :
Lazzara is the vocalist
Matthew Fazzi is the guitarist and back-up vocalist
Eddie Reyes is also aguitarist
Mark O’Connell is the drummer
Matt Rubano is the bassist and also a back-up vocalist
About the Genre - Rock
This genre of music entered our mainstream in the 60's, and some of its roots include 1940's and 50's rock and roll, rhythm and blues, country music and also drew on folk music, jazz and classical. The sound of rock music tends to revolve around instruments such as the guitar, Rock music uses strong beats that are laid down by a rhythm section of electric bass guitars, drums, keyboards and piano's.
The late 1960’s and 70’s is when rock music developed sub genres amongst the title of Rock music, for example when it was blended with folk music it became folk rock, with blues it created blues-rock and with upbeat jazz music is became jazz-rock fusion.
1970’s: It incorporated its influences from soul, Funk and Latin music. This decade subgenres such as Soft rock, glam rock, heavy metal rock, hard rock, progressive rock and punk rock became well known and entered the music business.
1980’s: The rock genres that emerged were New wave rock, hardcore punk rock and alternative rock.
1990's: The rock subgenres included Grunge rock, Britpop Rock, indie rock and nu metal rock.
As you can see from the timetable above rock continued to expand over the decade and even this day in age it remains one of the most popular genres.
A rock band or groups are a group of musicians that specialise in rock music. These groups consist of an electric guitarist, lead singers, a lead singer who plays an instrument also, bass performers. Some groups omit one or more of these roles and/or utilize a lead singer who plays an instrument while singing, sometimes forming a due or trio. Because the genre music is such a wide group more rarely, groups also utilize stringed instruments such as violins or cellos, and even woodwind instruments such as saxophones and even brass instruments such as trumpets this gives different effects and an interesting approach to their music. As its such a wide genre it means experimenting with different instruments can end up creating something unique and effective.
Questionnaire & Findings
All together we asked 80 people in total in our group of four; we did this by asking 20 people each then putting our data together to get a larger sample. By all going off asking different people meant our range would be more varied. All together we asked 10 questions, the reason that we did a questionnaire was to get a basic idea of what interests the target group that we would be aiming our music video to. This will also allow us to gain an insight of what they expect from music videos to therefore when making ours we can try and make it fit their expectations.
Q1. What age category do you fall into?
Teenager up to 20: 63
20-30: 12
30+: 5
Q2. Are you male or female?
Male: 40
Female: 40
Q3. What is your favourite music genre?
R & B: 9
Dance: 5
House: 7
Punk: 9
Rock: 28
Metal: 9
Pop: 5
Motown: 8
Q4. When watching a music video do you feel it is more effective if it is performance based or has a narrative running through it?
Performance: 21
Narrative: 27
Both: 32
Q5. Do you think it is important that the style of music is shown through effects and props?
Yes: 42
Sometimes: 24
Not really: 14
Q6. Who would you say should play the biggest part in the music video?
Actors: 29
Band Members: 51
Q7. What type of music channels interest you?
MTV: 10
Kerrang: 39
Smash hits: 8
TMF: 23
Q8. Out of the options below what makes a storyline interesting?
Romance: 12
Real Life: 23
Comical: 11
Emotions: 32
Q9. When making a music video do you think the bands image show strongly be portrayed?
Yes: 62
No: 18
Q10. What would you like the narrative to be?
Emotive: 51
Comical: 22
Neither: 7
ANALYSIS OF RESULTS
Q1: Over 75% of the people that the questionnaire was asked to fell into the teenager and young adult category therefore when coming up with ideas I will try to particularly target this group I can do this threw props, song choice and narratives. Nearly 7% of the sample were over 30, so I wont really take this age group into consideration when planning out my ideas yet they still may show an interest to our finished product.
Q2: This result came out to be even in our questionnaire therefore the finished product should attract both genders and I will try not to make it sway to one or the other.
Q3: 35% of the people who filled in my questionnaire selected rock as their favourite music genre this received the most votes therefore when selecting my chosen song I will make sure it falls into the category genre of rock; I think rock music is so popular amongst the younger generation as there is a lot more variety on the market that fall into this category from heavy metal rock to jazz rock, so there is something to suit every one. R & B and Punk were second most popular and received just over 11% each, I think punk was also popular because its quite close to the rock genre and r & b is what’s in the charts at the moment, with it appearing regularly on tv music channels and radios people are consuming it on a regular basis so therefore it becomes a favourite for people to listen to. Surprisingly Motown was 3rd most popular even though it is old this shows people still like dated music and enjoy listening to it.
Q4: The target audience voted having a narrative and performance running through a music video most effective, I think if you just focus on one element it makes it slightly less interesting for the viewer to consume therefore by having a band performance alongside a storyline makes it more exciting for the viewer to watch.
Q5: Over 52% of people said that its important for the props and effects to reflect the style and genre of the music, I agree strongly with is as it gives it structure if everything flows and links in together. Also adds an element of professionalism when things don’t look out of place, for example if it was a slow melody having fast edits wouldn’t match the pace or beat therefore look out of place. Only 14 people said it didn’t really matter which definitely out weighed by the 42 who believe it is important, therefore when planning out the music video I will make sure the use of props and effects are associated with the style of rock.
Q6: Just over 63% say that band member should play the biggest part in the music video I think this is because its there song therefore its appropriate to see them the most in the video, as its also important for them to get their message across and well as promote themselves. However actors still play an important role in getting the storyline across as their actions and moves indicate emotions and tell a story through the lyrics of the song.
Q7: Nearly 50% of the people who filled in my questionnaire voted kerrang as a music channel which interests them the most, this channel tends to focus on rock music which is what genre I have decided on doing. Therefore if my music was to be dispatched I would have it featured on programme’s such as Kerrang. As well as it being a music channel it is also a weekly published music magazine. The name ‘Kerrang’ suggests refers to the sound of smashing a guitar which makes it appropriate for the genre of this music.
Q8: 40% of my target group think that an emotional storyline would be interesting I think this covers a wide selection of storyline topics including love, hate, jealousy, terror. This means when im planning out ideas I can be creative when choosing an emotion to focus on. Comical was the least popular in this questionnaire but I don’t think it will be suitable to turn it comical if I decide on a strong rock song. Real-life was also popular which I think is important as it is more moving when it’s a realistic storyline that everyday people can follow and relate to therefore in the storyline I will try and keep it as realistic as possible.
Q9: From this result I am definitely going to make sure the bands image is portrayed strongly showing them as people and make sure their image reflects their music type. I think this can particularly be done through their costume and facial expressions. Therefore close up shots could be important part when it comes to focusing on facial expressions and certain elements of costume designs that I wish for the viewer to take in. A bands images helps promote them as an artist fitting into a specific music genre group which I will work on to make sure its portrayed.
Q10: Once again my target group feel emotive is the best type of narrative to follow so therefore I will make sure a strong emotion is conveys in my music video, I think when there is a strong feeling of emotion is following the lyrics is touches people and takes them into the mind of how the character is feeling. 63% are saying that they would like it to be emotive which is more than half of the sample therefore I must take in their opinion into consideration to make sure it will be a success amongst this group.
.
Q1. What age category do you fall into?
Teenager up to 20: 63
20-30: 12
30+: 5
Q2. Are you male or female?
Male: 40
Female: 40
Q3. What is your favourite music genre?
R & B: 9
Dance: 5
House: 7
Punk: 9
Rock: 28
Metal: 9
Pop: 5
Motown: 8
Q4. When watching a music video do you feel it is more effective if it is performance based or has a narrative running through it?
Performance: 21
Narrative: 27
Both: 32
Q5. Do you think it is important that the style of music is shown through effects and props?
Yes: 42
Sometimes: 24
Not really: 14
Q6. Who would you say should play the biggest part in the music video?
Actors: 29
Band Members: 51
Q7. What type of music channels interest you?
MTV: 10
Kerrang: 39
Smash hits: 8
TMF: 23
Q8. Out of the options below what makes a storyline interesting?
Romance: 12
Real Life: 23
Comical: 11
Emotions: 32
Q9. When making a music video do you think the bands image show strongly be portrayed?
Yes: 62
No: 18
Q10. What would you like the narrative to be?
Emotive: 51
Comical: 22
Neither: 7
ANALYSIS OF RESULTS
Q1: Over 75% of the people that the questionnaire was asked to fell into the teenager and young adult category therefore when coming up with ideas I will try to particularly target this group I can do this threw props, song choice and narratives. Nearly 7% of the sample were over 30, so I wont really take this age group into consideration when planning out my ideas yet they still may show an interest to our finished product.
Q2: This result came out to be even in our questionnaire therefore the finished product should attract both genders and I will try not to make it sway to one or the other.
Q3: 35% of the people who filled in my questionnaire selected rock as their favourite music genre this received the most votes therefore when selecting my chosen song I will make sure it falls into the category genre of rock; I think rock music is so popular amongst the younger generation as there is a lot more variety on the market that fall into this category from heavy metal rock to jazz rock, so there is something to suit every one. R & B and Punk were second most popular and received just over 11% each, I think punk was also popular because its quite close to the rock genre and r & b is what’s in the charts at the moment, with it appearing regularly on tv music channels and radios people are consuming it on a regular basis so therefore it becomes a favourite for people to listen to. Surprisingly Motown was 3rd most popular even though it is old this shows people still like dated music and enjoy listening to it.
Q4: The target audience voted having a narrative and performance running through a music video most effective, I think if you just focus on one element it makes it slightly less interesting for the viewer to consume therefore by having a band performance alongside a storyline makes it more exciting for the viewer to watch.
Q5: Over 52% of people said that its important for the props and effects to reflect the style and genre of the music, I agree strongly with is as it gives it structure if everything flows and links in together. Also adds an element of professionalism when things don’t look out of place, for example if it was a slow melody having fast edits wouldn’t match the pace or beat therefore look out of place. Only 14 people said it didn’t really matter which definitely out weighed by the 42 who believe it is important, therefore when planning out the music video I will make sure the use of props and effects are associated with the style of rock.
Q6: Just over 63% say that band member should play the biggest part in the music video I think this is because its there song therefore its appropriate to see them the most in the video, as its also important for them to get their message across and well as promote themselves. However actors still play an important role in getting the storyline across as their actions and moves indicate emotions and tell a story through the lyrics of the song.
Q7: Nearly 50% of the people who filled in my questionnaire voted kerrang as a music channel which interests them the most, this channel tends to focus on rock music which is what genre I have decided on doing. Therefore if my music was to be dispatched I would have it featured on programme’s such as Kerrang. As well as it being a music channel it is also a weekly published music magazine. The name ‘Kerrang’ suggests refers to the sound of smashing a guitar which makes it appropriate for the genre of this music.
Q8: 40% of my target group think that an emotional storyline would be interesting I think this covers a wide selection of storyline topics including love, hate, jealousy, terror. This means when im planning out ideas I can be creative when choosing an emotion to focus on. Comical was the least popular in this questionnaire but I don’t think it will be suitable to turn it comical if I decide on a strong rock song. Real-life was also popular which I think is important as it is more moving when it’s a realistic storyline that everyday people can follow and relate to therefore in the storyline I will try and keep it as realistic as possible.
Q9: From this result I am definitely going to make sure the bands image is portrayed strongly showing them as people and make sure their image reflects their music type. I think this can particularly be done through their costume and facial expressions. Therefore close up shots could be important part when it comes to focusing on facial expressions and certain elements of costume designs that I wish for the viewer to take in. A bands images helps promote them as an artist fitting into a specific music genre group which I will work on to make sure its portrayed.
Q10: Once again my target group feel emotive is the best type of narrative to follow so therefore I will make sure a strong emotion is conveys in my music video, I think when there is a strong feeling of emotion is following the lyrics is touches people and takes them into the mind of how the character is feeling. 63% are saying that they would like it to be emotive which is more than half of the sample therefore I must take in their opinion into consideration to make sure it will be a success amongst this group.
.
Album Releases Analysis
Bass HunterThe use of the blue colour scheme suggests masculinity as well as this new album being cool and fresh. The sports car prop connotes wealth and ‘coolness’. A car can also be a symbol of males as males are known to take their pride and joy into belongings such as cars and houses ect. Also it has links with the beat and spead of the dance music being fast and upbeat. This image also has an intextual reference to the 80’s tv series ‘Night rider’ as this is a film well known for fast cars also could have a reference to the film ‘too fast too furious’. The overall appearance reflects the theme of night club culture. Strobe lights all go in together behind the image of the artist and the car this brings in all the attention focusing on him. His costume is very casual; jeans, trainers, white t-shirt and a leather jacket showing his approach to his music is laid back and its seen as a hobby as well as a career. The leather jacket connotes rebellion; this act shows authority and shows us that he doesn’t have to dress smartly to show his success. The font used is white capital bold font, this really stands out on the blue background and he name of the artist is emphasised by horizontal thick lines these could symbolise road markings, which link in with the image of the sports car. I think this cover particularly targets a male audience through colours, themes, fonts and images all of these work together giving a masculine vibe off.
Janet Jackson This is the advertisement for Janet Jackson is really playing on its simple appearance of black and white. Even though you would assume that a black and white effect wouldn’t stand out and be eye-catching this advertisement is, the use of glowing shadowing contrast behind the image really brings it forward. This image of Janet Jackson takes up more than half of the magazine advert gives dominance over the audience consuming this advertisement. The lack of clothing that she has on shows she has confidence in herself yet with her arms wrapping around herself shows she is still quite a reserved person, and keeps herself to herself. Its really different how she has got the name of the album and her name sort of hand painted onto her leather gloves could indicate that her music represents her and its original. Her facial expression is straight on looking into the camera, her make up appears to be very natural and not over done showing she doesn’t rely on her looks to attract an audience, her statement is quite laid back that she is portraying. The font still follows through the simple appearance by using a plain readable font which isn’t over crowded. Janet Jackson specialises her music to the R & B and pop genre yet this advertisement doesn’t echo this type of music when you first look at it you would think it reflects rock, therefore this suggests that this album is something new and fresh different from what she is used to releasing. A link to a website is along the bottom of this advertisement, if people are attracted to this advertisement they are likely to take the lead and go onto this website finding out more about this album and this website can be used to advertise her even further making people more likely to go out and purchase the album.
CascadaThis advert for cascada’s new album ‘Evacuate the dance floor’ has stuck to a precise colour scheme of purple and white. Even though this reflects a feminine side to the artist it doesn’t indicate or give of any vibe of her genre of music. As we normally associate dance music with neon and bright stroke lighting effects like the bass hunter advert above. In contrast the white text shows up well on the darker purple background which is a key element for a billboard as people may be viewing this from a further away distance; this means it is readable still. The same font which has been used on the album cover has been used on the font used to print her name, which links the actual album cover to the theme of the billboard advertisement. The albums name is still on capitals yet appears to be slightly smaller this is placed underneath her name. The advertisement doesn’t contain a lot of information as chances are that people viewing it will not have the time to sit and read it or they may be driving past, therefore only key information needs to be stated in order to make sure that is the information the view is consuming. The information stated is the date that the album comes out which means potential buyers of the album are aware from the date they are able to purchase her album. The image of cascada seems very energetic, her mouth is wide open which suggests she’s screaming giving a slight dramatic feeling to it. The airbrushed appearance makes her appear glamorous; attracting both genders of people. Her image appears on the left hand side of the billboard and people read from left to right therefore they are likely to come in contact with this before the writing so they can automatically link her face to her name.
MadonnaVoyeurism is present in this album release advertisement; the image of Madonna is very sexual and is defiantly aimed towards a male audience. Her costume symbolises her fiery attitude towards this particular album. The contrast between the bright pink background and bright blue font really stands out reflecting the genre of dance music, as well as linking in with the album title ‘Hard candy’ as candy itself tends to be bright attractive colours. These colours are vibrant which represent the type of music she produces as stereotypically, dance and rave music are rarely mundane, and are often extravagantly eye-catching. Her name is not on this album release advertisement but this shows that her global recognition is extremely high and people automatically know who she is by her image. The main focus of this actual advertisement is her image as it takes up a majority of the page showing that she’s a successful individual artist. The controversial choice of clothing within this advertisement helps to symbolise Madonna as a “sex icon”, also representing her global dominance as people will resist the temptation to mock her image as her success is greatly recognised. Her facial expression isn’t the typical pose of a female solo artist it’s quite ‘edgy’ and makes a statement. The way she has a tie going into her mouth shows her as dominance over males as well as women. High over the knee boots tend to be associated with sexual connotations of being their to draw in attention of a male audience. The belt around the middle is a champion wrestling belt which shows her strength and superiority that she has in the music industry.
Gwen Stefani The main image is a blown up image that is used for the front of the album cover, it is quite an airbrushed image of the artist and it edited to look as if she’s a cartoon, the albums title is ‘Love, Angel and Music Baby’- this overall title is quite young sounding which links to the cartooned image. She is sitting in a queens thrown holding a jeweled stick with a jeweled crown beside her the font then follows on this theme of royalty by being gold and written in a script font. This advertisement for an Gwen Stefani’s album release is mainly based around her image as it has very little writing and information. Her name is printed in the largest font and appears just to be below half way this is to make sure none of her image is covered but it is still big enough to catch the audiences attention in the first few seconds of looking at it so people are able to put a name to a picture straight away.
Music Dvd Covers Analysis
ABBA
The main image shows where abba are from and gives a sense of unity and purity which reflects the two marriages between the group. It shows a close relationship between the band as they are all genuinely smiling, it is almost like a family holiday photograph. This image has been carefully put together with the two females in the centre and the two males on the outside, because the females are in the inside this reveals the decade of their musical career as men where always seen as looking after females and females were seen as more venerable. It also means we wont get confused who the two couples are. The symmetrical title links in with the even amount of males to females in the band. I feel through the scenery and dress sense that this dvd cover doesn’t help promote there music and doesn’t send any signals suggesting the genre so if the audience wasn’t aware of the music they play it may be hard to pick up upon. Abba are well known for their chart topping pop hits yet looking at this dvd cover you may think they are more a country type of band. The colour theme has a very cold feel about it with it being blue and white this matches the photography. 
Britney Spears
The overall appearance of this dvd cover echo’s her young age, the image shows her innocence; its as if she is looking down onto the camera. Her sitting down pose shows her attitude is still mature towards her career. Her facial expression is over the top its just a natural quite serious look showing that even though she is young she takes her career seriously. The image has been highly edited with a sepia tone over the top then photo shopped on top of a blue background. She has a pink glow behind her showing her feminism and provides something that helps the image of her stand out. This adds that pop type to this dvd cover as there is a lot of blue used in the cover which isn’t usually stereotypically used for young female artists such as Britney. The blue is used throughout and continued onto the back of the dvd cover, this could be used to also attract a male audience as well as a female audience. Britney’s name is in yellow which really stands out on the blue background also yellow and blue are primary colours which allow links with her age. Other images include video parts taken from the actual dvd gives the target audience a taster of what they should be expecting. The back of the dvd cover consists of a lot of text however the text is easy to read due to the contrast of the light font being on a dark background.
Jackson 5The front cover image is of all the brothers/band members standing in an orderly fashion slightly overlapping one another which indicates their close relationship, there image is portrayed to be very similar and with it being in black and white this makes it even harder to distinguish who is who out of the brothers. They are all very similar almost uniformed there is nothing about there image that distinguishes them as individuals. Also the closeness and overlapping shows they as a tight family unit which they were, their facial expressions are happy and smiley showing that they take pride in their music as well as working together, also shows that they enjoy working as a family. This image immediately grabs and focuses our attention on them as a group and gets us thinking who is who. The black and white images are continued throughout the back of the dvd cover to not only does this reflect the decade of their music career but it also keeps the image of them all looking very alike into the audiences head. The image on the back is of the brothers on bikes in the street showing they still lived a normal child hood life yet had this amazing singing career along side them. The fonts used for the ‘Jackson5’ and the ‘Jacksons’ are two very different fonts yet they collide together to tell us something, The font used for the ‘Jackson5’ is very fun and childlike, Yet the bold capitals used for the ‘Jacksons’ is very stern and gives a more grown up approach linking back to the image of them living a child like life doing activities such as playing out on their bikes while having a strong music career like an adult musician would have who had many years of experience. The music genre of the Jacksons was Motown, it is a very ‘jazzy’ upbeat type of music which is full of energy therefore the use of green and pink seems to work well behind the black and white image, Green and pink aren’t colours that tend to go together but the contrast of them gives a funky approach as well as reflecting the age of the band to. I would say this music dvd cover would attract a target group of young people like themselves who have a strong music taste of Motown as well as females who will be attracted to the artists. The Jackson 5 portrayed a very professional working image attitude throughout their music career therefore this may attract adults to listen to their music as they are very interested in the younger generation, maybe if they have children similar age range to.
Madonna
Beyonce
Madonna This is an important way of constructing the artist as a person as well as their music genre, visually this dvd music cover is very dull and lacks colour yet at the same time effective due to the Coloured glowing title. Since the shot on the front cover is a close-up we are able to see her expression very easily this helps contribute to the way she is portrayed in the music industry. The close-up also exaggerates her expression and conveys a strong feeling of emotions across , her expression isn’t the typical ‘pouty’ pose that we would expect to see from a pop artist but its serious the way she is looking into the camera, it also has connotations of a sexual nature the way her is open slightly, this indicates her maturity that she has, also it signifies her as an independent strong solo artist. The lack of detail in the mise-en-scene really allows us to focus on her expression this tightly frames her as a person and solo artist. The shadowy appearance gives of a feeling of mystery making us as the audience wonder if its like any other dvd she has had out, and could mean its something they may not be expecting. The other feature which grabs our attention is the title, this is another prominent element to the dvd cover as it is the only coloured detail throughout. The main colour of this is pink which connotes feminism, passion and it could also symbolize her sexuality. It could also connote fun, energy and love amongst a female generation, Pop music is normally linked with fun which is her main genre of her music. Pink isn’t a primary or a secondary it actually comes from the shade red, this could also suggest her music isn’t original it comes from someone else with her own twist which is suggest from the mixture of purple and blues to which has connotations of something fresh. The disco ball is used instead of an ‘O’, this adds more detail and gives a bit more character to the front cover. At the same time is it embracing to the audience that her music genre is quite ‘disco’ which reflects pop. I think her main target audience is females due to the overall pop feeling it is portraying also she isn’t trying to look ‘sexy’ to attract the opposite sex, however the parental symbol in the right hand corner tells us that’s its quite a mature female audience that is being targeted at this could be because of x-rated lyrics or footage that wouldn’t be suitable for someone of a younger age to be listening or watching.
Beyonce This dvd cover is particularly aimed at a female generation of teenagers and young adults, the image on the front cover takes up a majority of the space which makes our attention immediately drawn towards her. This close up shot magnifies her as a person and gives quite a personal approach between her and the viewer, this also suggests she quite a strong solo artist. Also her airbrushed appearance, styled hair and glam outfit connotes beauty which is what could bring in a wider target audience of males liking her and her music. The image on the back of the dvd cover follows from the front cover image as she is wearing the same outfit but this time it’s a long shot, her dress has a slit up her leg by revealing her body this tells us she’s a confident person and confident in the way she looks which has possibly helped her become the big star she is today. Her oufit is very glitzy and looks expensive which also indicates she’s a wealthy person and shows she’s a modern singer as it’s quite fashionable also. The disco ball helps indicate the genre of her music; for example it is likely to be played at disco’s and nightclubs, also suggests songs which people will enjoy a good old dance to. The bright appearance shows her music is quite fresh but at the same time up to date and funky. The artists name is in a bold curly font this adds a feminine style to it showing that’s she’s quite a feminine person, it is very over the top with all the squiggles around it which helps focus attention onto her name but also this could suggest her personality and music is over the top and stands out from other artists similar to herself. The sub title ‘The Beyonce experience’ suggests this is an experience your likely not to of had before therefore it’s worth taking the time in watching it. The rest of the text is quite small and in straight lines showing that the main focus of the cover is the artist herself.
Michael Jackson
When you first look at this DVD cover you would think it lacks colour, detail and life yet at the same time I think the basic layout and lack of colours works well and it very effective. The plain white background only emphasises what is on it and in contrast with the black and red it really makes them jump out. The colour theme has been carefully selected and continued throughout showing professionalism and reflects that he is a neat perfected performer and takes pride in his music. The main image is centered towards to top of the dvd cover, it’s a long shot of Michael Jackson up on his tip toes showing that he doesn’t just take his pride in his music but also his performances and dancing to. He is well known for wearing his black loafers, white socks with short legged trousers; this is also reflected and helps people associate and remember him by these as in the image of him he is also wearing these. His sequences blazer seems a little mix matched with his other clothing, all the black clothing suggests rock music yet the glitziness of the blazer interprets pop into his genre which is what most of his music is, so from his appearance and costume this is picked up upon in a unique unobvious way. Capitals are used throughout, this is big bold and eye-catching. The dvd cover isn’t overloaded with text it just has the basic information needed; the name on the artist, a title to illustrate the dvd and a list of songs that are included on the back, I think this works well with an audience because it is not giving them to much to take in at once and if they want to find out more they can just watch the dvd for themselves and find out that way. ‘Ones’ appears to even bigger than the other writing to show importance that these have had to him, and suggests if it wasn’t for all these number ones he wouldn’t of been as big as he was. This word also stands out due to lack of colour used on the front which makes it really eye catching and could possibly make the reader automatically be interest in wanted to know more and turn to the back of the dvd cover to see his number one songs.
Def Leppard
Michael JacksonWhen you first look at this DVD cover you would think it lacks colour, detail and life yet at the same time I think the basic layout and lack of colours works well and it very effective. The plain white background only emphasises what is on it and in contrast with the black and red it really makes them jump out. The colour theme has been carefully selected and continued throughout showing professionalism and reflects that he is a neat perfected performer and takes pride in his music. The main image is centered towards to top of the dvd cover, it’s a long shot of Michael Jackson up on his tip toes showing that he doesn’t just take his pride in his music but also his performances and dancing to. He is well known for wearing his black loafers, white socks with short legged trousers; this is also reflected and helps people associate and remember him by these as in the image of him he is also wearing these. His sequences blazer seems a little mix matched with his other clothing, all the black clothing suggests rock music yet the glitziness of the blazer interprets pop into his genre which is what most of his music is, so from his appearance and costume this is picked up upon in a unique unobvious way. Capitals are used throughout, this is big bold and eye-catching. The dvd cover isn’t overloaded with text it just has the basic information needed; the name on the artist, a title to illustrate the dvd and a list of songs that are included on the back, I think this works well with an audience because it is not giving them to much to take in at once and if they want to find out more they can just watch the dvd for themselves and find out that way. ‘Ones’ appears to even bigger than the other writing to show importance that these have had to him, and suggests if it wasn’t for all these number ones he wouldn’t of been as big as he was. This word also stands out due to lack of colour used on the front which makes it really eye catching and could possibly make the reader automatically be interest in wanted to know more and turn to the back of the dvd cover to see his number one songs.
Def LeppardJust from looking at the cover you can tell they are a British rock band, The United kingdom flag and dark edgy colours give it away. The image on the front of the cover is of the band members all together wearing all the same colour, this shows co-ordination and shows them as a tight close band. The image appears to be slightly angled as a lower shot, this increases the height of the band members which focuses our main attention on them, because the figures dominate the images we focus less on the mise-en-scene due to lack of detail. Through their stand and facial expresses doesn’t connote attractiveness but it shows a serious approach making us as the reader think they put everything into their music and take it seriously as a passion and career. The image used on the back of the cover is a performance shot which is of one of the band member singing, properly the main singer, this image illustrates that the dvd is of a live concert, the wide shot includes props such as musical instruments and crowds of people watching the performance. The dull lighting of these images adds an element of mystery which suggests that their music strongly follows conventional rock music conventions. The name of the band is what I think is most eye catching on this dvd cover the orange contrast on top of the black background really stands out as its in a sharp pointed font. The other fonts seem a little edgy also which all links into the theme of rock. The fonts are slanted and not on straight lines which also emphasises the band are different and don’t have intentions on perfection just do what they want, the way they want to. Overall I think their main target group is males over 20 who have a strong interest in the genre of rock music, this group is targeted through images and colours.
Music Video Analysis
Artist: Beyonce and shakrika
Song: Beautiful Liar
Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vgAN83PJWI
Visual effects have been used into making both artists to look alike which has an impact on the viewer as they have to look twice at first to check who is who, also symmetry has been used which looks good and keeps it even making the artists look even and play the same role into the music video. The idea of playing look alike came from Beyonce, who once watched a performance of someone dancing and thought they were dancing looking into a mirror until she had a closer look up and relised it was another person that looked alike mirroring his images, overall I think this effect works well throughout. The first half of the video features Beyonce and Shakira in separate cuts. It begins with the women's faces masked by smoke. As the video progresses they are featured against several different backgrounds, including: dawn (Beyonce) and dusk (Shakira); sheets blown in the wind; bamboo covered in yellow orchids; a room with blue neon lighting and avestan writing on the walls; and finally a background of stormy weather. Slow dance moves and belly dancing, during a breakdown after the bridge, are featured heavily throughout the video. The women wear matching hairstyles and black outfits for the entirety of video, the dark clothing reflect their emotion they are feeling about the male they are singing about, they are saying that the man isn’t worth their time as he’s just a beautiful liar that has cheated them both, yet the song reflects friendship between the two women that have been brought together from a cheating loved one, also the storyline of the same man cheating them both - could be the reason for them looking a like as he treated them both in a special way not choosing one over another also suggested from the even amount of cuts they have of each other. The video opens up with a Smokey atmosphere and has each of the artists face faded behind them one after another slowly introducing them in, then as soon as it begins to get upbeat it jumps straight into a long performing shot of each of them dancing. The way they refer to him as ‘Beautiful’ makes us think this man they are singing about is the typical ‘pretty boy type’ who is aware of his attractiveness and is using this to power his ability to treat women like this yet they aren’t giving him the satisfaction or attention he is expecting. This song has been highly successful in many countries and won many rewards and has even been made into different versions of remixes as well as in different languages, it even won the best selling british song in 2008, one of the reasons I think it appeared to be so successful is because it featured two very different singers who were already well known in the charts and worldwide, the mixture of the American r & b singing by Beyonce and the Colombian Latin pop singer Shakira really works well together creating a unique soundtrack. The target group of this song I would say was definitely females due to the narrative of the song being about a man being found out about his cheating ways, Even though beyonces music type normally attracts r & b music fans Shakira’s Latin approach means a more cultural group may be interested, this means a wider audience is attracted, again making it such a success.
Song: Beautiful Liar
Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vgAN83PJWI
Visual effects have been used into making both artists to look alike which has an impact on the viewer as they have to look twice at first to check who is who, also symmetry has been used which looks good and keeps it even making the artists look even and play the same role into the music video. The idea of playing look alike came from Beyonce, who once watched a performance of someone dancing and thought they were dancing looking into a mirror until she had a closer look up and relised it was another person that looked alike mirroring his images, overall I think this effect works well throughout. The first half of the video features Beyonce and Shakira in separate cuts. It begins with the women's faces masked by smoke. As the video progresses they are featured against several different backgrounds, including: dawn (Beyonce) and dusk (Shakira); sheets blown in the wind; bamboo covered in yellow orchids; a room with blue neon lighting and avestan writing on the walls; and finally a background of stormy weather. Slow dance moves and belly dancing, during a breakdown after the bridge, are featured heavily throughout the video. The women wear matching hairstyles and black outfits for the entirety of video, the dark clothing reflect their emotion they are feeling about the male they are singing about, they are saying that the man isn’t worth their time as he’s just a beautiful liar that has cheated them both, yet the song reflects friendship between the two women that have been brought together from a cheating loved one, also the storyline of the same man cheating them both - could be the reason for them looking a like as he treated them both in a special way not choosing one over another also suggested from the even amount of cuts they have of each other. The video opens up with a Smokey atmosphere and has each of the artists face faded behind them one after another slowly introducing them in, then as soon as it begins to get upbeat it jumps straight into a long performing shot of each of them dancing. The way they refer to him as ‘Beautiful’ makes us think this man they are singing about is the typical ‘pretty boy type’ who is aware of his attractiveness and is using this to power his ability to treat women like this yet they aren’t giving him the satisfaction or attention he is expecting. This song has been highly successful in many countries and won many rewards and has even been made into different versions of remixes as well as in different languages, it even won the best selling british song in 2008, one of the reasons I think it appeared to be so successful is because it featured two very different singers who were already well known in the charts and worldwide, the mixture of the American r & b singing by Beyonce and the Colombian Latin pop singer Shakira really works well together creating a unique soundtrack. The target group of this song I would say was definitely females due to the narrative of the song being about a man being found out about his cheating ways, Even though beyonces music type normally attracts r & b music fans Shakira’s Latin approach means a more cultural group may be interested, this means a wider audience is attracted, again making it such a success.
Artist: Alexander Burke
Song: Hallelujah
The clip begins by opening up when she is waiting for her audition; this is footage that was shown to the public therefore because it opens with this the audience can recall seeing this and therefore link it to the reality tv show x-factor which is the competition she won. It then cuts into a medium shot of her dressed in a glamorous black dress in a dark room lit up with thousands of candles; this sets the scene that is suitable for the mood of the song, The song that is being performed isn’t original but it is a modern version of a song which is already well known. From this medium shot it slowly goes into a close up of her, from this close up we can really get a feel for what she is feeling and her passion for singing is reflected through this close up. It then goes into a head shot of her and the candle lit background is still continued. It then cuts back to her in the actual audition room performing in front of the judges with that sound muted out and the hallelujah soundtrack over the top; this part has been put into black and white which suggests something older which is suitable for this type of scene because it is from the past and she has stepped away from having to chase her dream as she has already succeeded. After the long shot it cuts to a close up and then ‘Cheryl’ one of the judges reaction fades beneath this scene showing that from the beginning of her audition she touched the judges heart. This scene slowing dissolves back into the close up of her face on top of the candle lit back ground. When it flashes back to her audition the camera freezes on her reaction showing it was an emotional rollercoaster to get to where she is today. It then goes into her running out of the audition room really happy suggesting that she is really pleased with what feedback she received in her audition. As the song gets more into it and the beat picks up it then goes onto a scene from her live performance from the final when she won, she flashes into a close up of her shocked reaction and a high angle shot of the crowd cheering to her. The video ends when she is being hugged by her mentor that helped her threw it by fading to black. The slow edits reflect the tone giving a calm over view. It is the first time that an X Factor winner has topped the end of year chart in the UK with their winner's single. Sales of "Hallelujah" passed 1 million by 9 January 2009; therefore the success of this video was excellent saying as it was already well known to people. The target audience for this video I would say was is people who are fans of the reality tv show, older generation who are interested in what modern twist has been given to this song and younger generation of females due to her glamourous appearance.
Artist: The saturdays
Song: I just can't get enough
Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vte4HUoRDSI
The video shows each girl singing in a mock-50s pin-up calendar, the story behind it is love. Their isnt a particular story natative behind this music video yet there theme is love, meaning they just cant get enough. The structure of the video is a commercial fun performance, nothing is being taken too seriously and it has a bright overall appearance. Fast edits are used throughout especially on the individual shots of the band members, these shots are also around about the same timing for each member therefore this shows that they all have the same role in the band and don’t have on dominant singer or performer. Also the shots when they are together as a band they are close together in an orderly fashion, this is a typical convention of a girl band to have dance routines that they all do and this video is like no other and the girls have a routine when they all sing the chorus together. The video doesn’t overdue on effects and backgrounds, it’s a simple layout of them on a plain background with props to indicate them when they are singing. This song is a version cover of the Depeche Mode classic, yet been given a modern funky uplift bring it up to date. This could also go towards it being such a success because people had heard the song but were interested to see changes which has been made and interpreted into it. Also with it being the comic relief single, red nose is a good course therefore viewers were interested in this even as well as the new single. I think the Saturdays main target audience is females below the age of 20, one reason I think they are popular amongst this generation is because they are young and attractive and many youngsters may inspire to be like them. The video is bright and colorful which is way that this young audience is drawn in and the girls look as if they are having fun in the video which this age group can relate to and enjoy watching. The bright appearance of the video links in with the pop music genre and also indicates a younger teenage audience that is being targeted. The ‘Pop’ based group may also attract other pop song lovers who like the beat and tune of the song as well as a male audience, due to there small amounts of clothing and attractive appearances.
Artist: Rihanna
Song: Disturbia
Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1G_4CU8Ds0
The effects match the fast, upbeat pop/dance-rhythmic song that it is. Disturbia music video captures the meaning of the song by picturing a dark and disturbing world of people’s mental delusional anguish confusing behavior. The mise-en-scene in this video follows the whole disturbed effect which has been intended, things like rusty bed frames without a mattress, spiders, crimpled crumbling walls and disturbed looking actors. Even though all the clothing is dull and mainly black she adds the element of beauty when she wears her red lipstick. This music video steps away from her typical glamorous up music videos she is known for making therefore with this being something new and different I feel has made it a success, her music fans may not of expected something like this and with it being different to her others it stands out and is memorable.
Artist: Ne-yo
Song: Closer
Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZUTh3OJjWjM
In the song the narrative running along side the lyrics and video is that the artist ‘Ne-yo’ is having an urging attraction to a woman he sees, having the desire to "come closer" to her, as the song goes on his attraction to this woman becomes stronger, and almost hypnotic-like, as he sings "And I just can't pull myself away, under a spell I can't break/I just can't stop." When he sings this lyric his actions in the video mirror what he is saying bringing the woman closer to his body. Visually this video follows the lyrics. The structure of this video is studio based with a narrative running along side it, on the individual shots of Ne-yo it shows him in a centre of a spot light either alone or with four female back up dancers or on a motorcycle with an attractive female. Props such as a motorcycle connote masculinity as it’s seen as a masculine hobby to undertake to ride a motorcycle, it also shows wealth and money. The video is set out in a black and white theme throughout I think this shows gives a dated effect yet to a modern song. One main focus of this video is that he’s dancing, the video shows regular close ups of his face and footwork, the emotions on his face indicate that he’s serious about what hes singing about and shows he has passion towards the woman. When him and the woman are getting close, the setting appears smoky and foggy this connotes a strong sexual desire they have for one another, this also is a close up shot. This shot magnifies and shows the importance of their connection and takes us in the mind of the actors/artist. In reality we only let close ones that close to us which is why this close up is able to reveal the intimacy they have. Also the smoky setting suggests a hot environment that they may share when they are alone. We he is performing with the dancers it goes into long shot so we are able to see them as well as him performing but this still edits into close ups of him indicating to the viewer who the main person in the video is. His microphone is also a prop which links in with his dress code and overall appearance of the video as its an ‘oldschool’ type micro phone you would find in shows in the early 20’. This urban classic is a catchy song by a popular artist, because the lyrics run along and appear on the screen the audience consuming the video are more likely to catch onto the lyrics and be able to sing along which is feel is good way of making people like the song as well as getting people to know your lyrics means they can sing along every time they hear it. This song was released as ne-yo’s first single from his third album and it reached number 1 in the uk therefore this success was very achieving for the artist. Also in early 2008 it was used in a commercial which was used to promote them album. This song has also made appearances in TV dramas such as gossip girl. The song is classed as American pop/ r & b; this is very up to date music in the charts which I think definitely aims to target a younger youthful group. In my opinion I would say Ne-yo is inspired from an earlier generation of music from artists such as Michael Jackson but gives this influences a modern twist. His old fashioned style with a suit, hat and stick really works well with his upbeat track as it steps away from him trying to pursue a ‘cool’ look by dressing casual. His dress sense adds more sophistication which could possibly target an old generation as well as younger.
Artist: Irene Cara – Flash dance
Song: What a feeling
Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIG-R96GSpk
The narrative storyline of this music video is actually based on the mover ‘flashdance’; It is based on the life of an 18 year old girl called Alexander, Her aspiration is to become accepted by a prestigious dance school, the (fictional) Pittsburgh Conservatory of Dance and Repertory. As a soft melody opens up the song the music video pans up into an image of a sunset, these images match the pace of the music. As what is scene by the viewer is reflected through what they are hearing; something calming and relaxing which is also what a sunset suggests. The lighting is very dark but with a warm colouring over the top. The opening scene is set in New York city with someone cycling threw the city on their bike their pace matched the slow pace of the bike. When the song kicks in to an upbeat the mise-en-scene goes into a scene where she’s performing to an audience, this is taken from the movie flash dance which this song was created for. This scene is really energetic matching the pace of the music. The smoke effect that is around her on the stage suggest night time which is suitable for the show, as when you go and watch a show it tends to be in the evening as it’s a dance show which adults would tend to go and see. It then goes onto a close up of a woman smiling, this close up really emphasises this happy emotion just before it jumps into the energetic upbeat part of the song. After this is then cuts into a shot which was the most famous shot in the movie and is still well known today, this shot is emphasised by the spot light shining onto her while she sits back on a chair and releases the water onto her, This scene is shown right in the middle of the music video which shows its importance that it has. This music video is particularly based on the movie so it doesn’t really have a narrative running along side it, it is performance based on dancing. ‘What a feeling suggests’ that nothing is able to describe what she’s feeling therefore she is expression her self threw body language and dancing. When she is in the dance studio the effect looks as if its just a silhouette and you cant see much detail about the character therefore we know that our attention should automatically be focused on her moves rather than costume or facial expressions. Also the lack of detail in the mise-en-scene also emphasises this dancing silhouette focusing our attention onto her. The clip ends with the couple facing one another centred in the clip giving each other a rose this reflects the romantic feeling between them, it also ends the video on a positive note. These two characters in the actual movie became lovers as and he helps her achieve her dream. The success of this song was very high, the soundtrack album of Flashdance sold 700,000 copies during its first two weeks on sale and has gone on to sell over 6,000,000 copies in the US alone. In 1984 the album won the Grammy Award for Best Album of Original score written for a motion picture or a television special. One reason for its success is because of the movie. The target group of this music video appeals to a very wide range, it was published 1983 therefore it will appeal to an older genration as they were around when the movie came out however it is still popular today and people of a younger generation still listen to it. The movie is a great influence on people who persue a career in dancing and performing arts and has became a classic to do shows to.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)