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Showing posts from November, 2023

Dirty Dancing, "(I've Had) The Time Of My Life"--Music and the Fictive Dream

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Dirty Dancing is a 1987 dance drama film written by Eleanor Bergstein. I have fond memories of watching the movie when I was younger and singing and dancing to its soundtrack. In my opinion, it is a timeless classic that seamlessly blends romance, music, and dance. The film was produced by Linda Gottlieb and directed by Emile Ardolino. The scene is set in 1963 where Patrick Swayze stars as dance instructor Johnny Castle, and Jennifer Grey plays Frances "Baby" Houseman, a young woman at a resort who falls in love with him. Dirty Dancing premiered at the Cannes Film Festival on May 12, 1987, and was released on August 21, 1987, earning $214 million worldwide. It was acclaimed by critics for the performances of Grey and Swayze, and its soundtrack, composed by Jimmy Ienner, produced two multi-platinum albums. It was also the first film to sell over one million copies on home video. The soundtrack of 1988 produced several hits that landed on the charts, such as “She’s Like the Wi...

Elvis Presley--Role of the Performer

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T he American singer, actor, and cultural icon Elvis Aaron Presley was born in Tupelo, Mississippi on January 8, 1935, . His classic rock and roll style greatly influenced popular music in the 20th century, earning him the title "King of Rock and Roll". He was not primarily known as a songwriter; rather, he was celebrated for his powerful and emotive interpretations of songs written by others. The mid-1950s marked Elvis' musical journey as he gained fame for his energetic performances and unique fusion of various music genres, including rock, blues, and gospel. He achieved international recognition when he released his breakthrough hit, "Heartbreak Hotel" in 1956. "Heartbreak Hotel" is a rock and roll classic that is a perfect example of Elvis Presley's blending of various musical influences. Blues Influence: "Heartbreak Hotel" is built on the foundation of the blues, a genre that was heavily influenced by Elvis' early work. Rhythm ...

A Musical Trip--Reggae (Jamaica)

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I have always loved hearing reggae music! This music genre originated in Jamaica in the late 1960s. Its distinctive sound can be attributed to a variety of cultural, historical, and musical factors. Here's an exploration of reggae music and why it sounds different:   Historical and Cultural Roots: Afro-Caribbean and African influences : Reggae music is deeply rooted in African and Caribbean music traditions. Its unique sound is derived from its rhythmic patterns, syncopation, and call-and-response elements, which are influenced by African and Afro-Caribbean music.  Rastafarianism : Rastafarianism is one of the major influences on reggae's themes and lyrics. In reggae lyrics, themes such as freedom, spirituality, and social justice are often echoed by Rastafarian beliefs that are based on Marcus Garvey's teachings and a spiritual connection to Ethiopia. Bob Marley, a popular reggae singer and songwriter, was an influential artist in Jamaica, as well as throughout the world....