CS 400 U Fall 2024 Bog Post Assignment 1
"Lana del Rey knows, Lana del Rey sees, and most importantly, Lana del Rey understands."
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Welcome to the CS 400 Fall 2024 Collaborative Course Blog!!!
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Blog Post Assignment #2
Blog post #2 will be due by Monday, October 7 by 6 PM, and your comments on TWO of your classmates' posts by Friday, October 11 by 6 PM. However, if you need a few extra days to complete your post and/or comments, that would be OK.
I would like to share a YouTube channel I came across a little while ago, the channel is run by a Jazz Musician named Charles Cornell who breaks down many kinds of music including movie soundtracks and popular songs. He separates music to the fundamental chords and progressions that make the song come together. I found his content to be very interesting and informative, giving me a different perspective to the music I have been listening to.
ReplyDeleteFinding out that this course was going to incorporate music and sound felt like a great combination of my major communications as well as the minor that I am working towards music. It is exciting that a course like this is offered where I can combine both of my studies.
Here is a link to the YouTube channel where Charles breaks down the song “September” by Earth, Wind and Fire: https://youtu.be/bWlv92XQlRw?si=pS7c0IGJnpLTiZC-
Hi Cole! I really enjoyed your post. I am a big fan of the fundamentals of music and how it creates different emotions from various forms of sound. I think the creation of music is really important to the final product and it can affect the reactions we have to it from simple note changes.
DeleteHi Cole! Great job with your post, I really enjoyed taking a look at the YouTube channel that you shared. I agree that this content is super interesting and I appreciate you sharing it with us.
DeleteWhile I would consider rap music my favorite form of aural digital media, slow pop is what resonates with me the most deeply. I have been crafting my Slow Bops playlist for five years, and I feel it is the perfect playlist to represent my connection with sound and music. Some of the songs in this playlist are happy, and others are very sad, but every single one has deep emotion connected to it and makes me feel something. I listen to this playlist quite often, and I use it to inspire my dance choreography. Dance is a prominent aspect of my life, and having a playlist that makes me truly feel something makes my choreography authentic and true.
ReplyDeleteHere is the playlist, I hope you enjoy: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6onxfUKG2zSW9pfQhMkbbD?si=122bd48609d949f8
I decided to take CS400U to learn more about the evolution of music culture as a whole. While I know that music has changed from genres like Jazz and Blues to current-day Pop, I would be incredibly interested in learning more about what cultural aspects inspired the music in each era. Learning more about the inspirations behind each genre would help me feel even more connected to music as a whole. I would definitely be interested in researching the cultural inspirations behind different music genres for my group project.
I love how you’ve crafted your playlist over the years—there’s something special about curating a collection of songs that resonate with you on such a deep emotional level. I can totally relate to using music as a tool for inspiration, especially for creative expression like dance. The connection between sound and movement is such a powerful way to channel emotion, and it’s cool to see how your playlist fuels your choreography
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Hi Emily, I love your music taste!! I also relate to dance being a prominent aspect in my life. Just for fun, of course. I think it'd be cool to see how Jazz has changed because I agree that learning about how its evolved would make one's connection to the music deeper.
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ReplyDeleteSomething I find very fascinating in terms of the world of digital media and sound music is the AI driven Spotify playlists and DJ. I find it compelling because it feels like a personalized guide to my musical preferences. It not only plays my favourite songs but it introduces me to new music that I may have never discovered before. I like that there are different playlists depending on the time of day, moods, and preferences; curating playlists that I can play at any time of the day and enjoy. These AI playlists make my daily aural experience unique and constantly evolving as I learn new songs daily.
ReplyDeleteHere is the link to a photo of my Friday Afternoon Playlist: https://imgur.com/a/vG0PgtZ
I decided to take this class because I'm interested in learning more about the deeper meaning behind music and aural cultures. Music is a big part of my daily life, and I believe this class would be a great way to explore how sound affects us. For the group project, I would be interested in the topic of how AI is changing the way we find music and how streaming is changing and shaping the way we listen.
Your idea for a group project on how AI is changing the way we find and listen to music is definitely relevant. The way streaming platforms are shaping our listening habits is something I’ve noticed too—especially how playlists are no longer just collections of songs, but a reflection of our daily routines and emotions. It’s a powerful shift in how we engage with music on a deeper level.
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Thank you for sharing this Emma. I really connect with your take on AI-driven playlists, especially how they create a constantly evolving, personalized music experience. I also love how these playlists not only cater to my preferences, but also introduce me to new music I might not have discovered on my own. It’s fascinating how they adjust to different moods and times of day, making each listening session feel tailored and unique. Your interest in exploring how AI is changing the way we find and engage with music is something I’m excited about too. It’s amazing to think about how much AI is shaping our musical experiences and the future of listening.
DeleteWhen it comes to my daily interaction with digital media and music, one platform stands out: Spotify, specifically the "Deep Focus" playlist. I discovered it during a hectic time at university when I needed music that helped me focus without being distracting. Ambient tracks like Max Richter's "On the Nature of Daylight" and Nils Frahm’s "Says" create a subtle background that enhances my concentration, making long study sessions feel effortless. What I love most is how adaptable it is—whether I’m reading, coding, or brainstorming, it provides a calming yet stimulating soundscape. Spotify’s algorithm also helps me discover new music that aligns with my listening habits, shaping my daily engagement with sound. In a world full of distractions, this playlist has become more than just background noise; it’s a tool for focus and mental clarity. If you’re looking for music to enhance your productivity, check out the Deep Focus playlist (https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DWZeKCadgRdKQ)—it’s been a game-changer for me.
ReplyDeleteI enrolled in "Digital Media and Aural Cultures" because I've always been fascinated by how sound and music shape our daily experiences, especially in this age of constant digital interaction. Music has always been more than entertainment for me—it's a tool for focus, creativity, and emotional regulation. I wanted to dive deeper into how these personal experiences intersect with larger trends in digital media and sound culture
I really appreciate your insight Mikayla. Your thoughts on how the Deep Focus playlist enhances mental clarity really resonates with me. I am sure that the large majority of students have gone through hectic times, and I commend you for discovering a way to relieve stress through music. It truly proves the power it holds in our day-to-day lives. Similar to your experience, the right playlist helps me stay focused and creative while working on my own, or even collaborating with others. I greatly appreciate how you have shared your connection to Spotify as a platform, it is fascinating how platforms like Spotify adapt to our personal needs, shaping how we engage with sound.
DeleteI completely agree with what you’re saying and can personally relate. During busy times in school, especially around midterms and finals, I constantly have deep focus or stress-relief music playing in the background. Whether I'm studying or writing papers, it really helps me stay grounded. The “Deep Focus” playlist on Spotify has been a lifesaver for me as well. It creates that perfect environment where I can stay concentrated without feeling overwhelmed, and like you, I love how Spotify introduces me to new music that fits my workflow. Thanks for sharing your experience, I will definitely have the Deep Focus playlist ready to go for this semester!
DeleteOne of my favourite genres of music is country music. I find that it is comforting because it feels real—like someone is sitting next to you, sharing their story, which is often a reflection of your own. I would like to share a song by Zach Bryan called 28. I feel like this song particularly captures the raw emotion and storytelling that makes country music so impactful. For me, this song resonates because it speaks to themes of struggle, resilience, and personal growth—things I’ve experienced in my own life. Whenever I need to reflect or find strength during challenging times, “28” and country music in general provide a sense of comfort and connection, reminding me that I’m not alone in facing life’s ups and downs. Also, many country songs have a soothing and relaxing quality that makes them truly enjoyable for me to listen to.
ReplyDeleteI’m taking this course to explore the role of digital media in how we consume and experience music and digital media in general. I’m interested in looking at how platforms like YouTube and Spotify have changed the way fans interact with music and how artists connect with their audiences. For my group project, I’d love to explore how digital media has influenced the rise of crossover genres within different types of music, and how that impacts the cultural landscape.
Hi Alessia, I also am a huge fan of country music. I started to listen to country music when I was in first year and it has slowly became one of my top genres to listen to. I agree with your point on how it provides a sense of comfort and connection, for me, I am reminded of first year University and how much my music taste has adapted since.
DeleteHi Alessia, I am also a huge Zach Bryan fan and love his song 28. The message behind it is so powerful and the line in the chorus, "how lucky are we" is such an inspirational line that could resonate with so many different people for so many different reasons. That song is also my favourite from his most recent album.
DeleteOne component of music that I currently find compelling is algorithm-made playlists. Specifically, Spotify has a dynamic “daylist” playlist that updates multiple times daily, tailoring song selections to match the listeners changing moods, activities and listening preferences throughout the day. As someone who listens to a variety of different genres of music, this is compelling because Spotify seems to know exactly what I want to listen to before I do, effortlessly anticipating my changing tastes and moods with each update. This feature has made music listening more enjoyable as it introduces you to new songs and familiar favourites. I enjoy comparing my daylist with people around me to see how our music tastes are different or similar, and to see how our preferences are different throughout the day.
ReplyDeleteAs I create this post, my daylist is “slow r&b monday morning”. I would recommend anyone that has Spotify to search “daylist” in their Spotify, I would love to hear what playlists are created for you. Heres the link to mine: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1EP6YuccBxUcC1?si=2683518746484204
I took this class because music is a massive component of my life. Throughout my experience in communications, we have learned about multiple different communication methods, however, music has always resonated with me and left me the most mesmerized. I am excited to learn about Digital and Aural studies this semester, as a breath of fresh air.
I definitely agree with you about the “daylist” playlist! I also find it fascinating how AI-driven it is and how it introduces me to new music every day – especially as I may not have discovered it without this playlist. As someone who enjoys a wide range of genres, it’s amazing how Spotify seems to know exactly which new songs I’ll enjoy. It’s like the playlist evolves with my moods, and I love how at different times of the day I'm introduced to different genres that match how I'm feeling or what I’m doing. It’s such a unique experience and definitely makes listening to music more exciting.
DeleteI also agree with your take on the "Daylist" feature that spotify has and have found myself using it more and more frequently rather than making my own playlists. Since it changes mulitple times and day to music you frequently listen to at that time, I find it super helpful when you want to listen to a certain genre of music without skipping songs. I also find it super helpful in finding new music and artist as well.
DeleteSomething I currently find interesting in relation to the music that I like is my favorite bands TikTok page. I follow the band Wallows on TikTok as it makes me feel connected and involved as a fan. The band members all have individual Instagram and TikTok pages, so the wallowsmusic account is designated for all things about their music. This includes video clips from their concerts, them in the studio making music, teasing new songs etc. The aesthetic of their page and videos matches the vibe of their music and overall band which I resonate with and enjoy engaging with. I interact with their TikTok page daily as their videos come up when I use the app, and I get to see what is new and it often leads me to go and listen to their music on Spotify. Here is a link to their TikTok page. https://www.tiktok.com/@wallows?_t=8pxxEvDLm0z&_r=1
ReplyDeleteAs for the reasons for me taking this class, I did need a 400 seminar class and when I read the course description and learned that it dealt with music and sound I knew that I would find it interesting as music is such a large part of my everyday life.
Over the past year, I have found myself being drawn to more Folk/Country music with a particular interest in Noah Kahan. I found him in 2023 and he quickly became one of my favourtie artist. His album, "Stick Season" gained popularity quick with his presents on social media. Last semester I was on exchange and spent six months in England. Whenever I was feeling homesick or needed some nosalgia from home I would turn on this albulm. I find music creates a direct connect for me to a time or place in my life. Now whenever I listen to this alblum I am remined of my time on exchange. In particular I have one songs from the alblum that resonate with my time and helped me through multiple feelings of homesickness and sadness. The song is called "You're Gonna Go Far" and I encourage everyone to check it out. This album and that song in particular will always remind me of such a special time in my life which is one of my favourite things about music in general. Below is the link for the alblum. https://open.spotify.com/album/3qBWNcWifNhUKJAWzswdJY?si=oU2bPfY2QVeDtxVXb15ChQ
ReplyDeleteA reason I took this clas is because I believe I have a very strong relationship with music. Growing up as a dancer I was always around music and was creating choreographing to songs. Since music is sill such a huge part of my everyday, I was very interested in this class.
I love your post about Noah Kahan! I totally agree with the feelings his songs generate. I listened to his music with my roommates when we were missing home and somehow we felt more at home. I love that music can generate a sense of connection to family anf loved ones without actually being with family.
DeleteMy love for music has been continuous throughout my life whether it be from the feelings it generates, dancing with my friends and family, or the musicality of it. I grew into different genres of music over time, but always held a special place for songs that I could truly sing to. I love to sing with my family and can remember always wanting to be a singer when I was little. The soundtrack from the Hannah Montana movie, more specifically, the song “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus reminds me of my childhood and brings back the nostalgia and spirit I had. I feel as though this song is a good representation of my relationship with music as I often listen to music while I am singing.
ReplyDeleteHere is the video of the song from the movie: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMdoR9ksC4k
I decided to take this course to gain more knowledge on the history of media technologies in regards to music and the ways in which we connect to it. I find it interesting to learn about the differences in genres and how times have changed our views on the music industry and pop culture. I am also in communications and found this to be an interesting choice for a 400 level course.
Hey Jordan! Great job with your post! I relate to your love for music, as well as your love for "The Climb" by Miley Cyrus. I was also a huge Hannah Montana fan as a child and hearing any song from the soundtrack always takes me back in time! I also wanted to be a singer when I was little, and Hannah Montana was always inspiring to me.
DeleteMusic has always been a big part of any daily activity. I listen to it while working on homework or whilst reading. Most times, I'm not doing anything in particular, but I want to fill the silent space with music. It's been a big part of my childhood growing up, first with my parents (specifically my mom) introducing me to artists that I still listen to this day, and my knowledge for others being introduced through the movies and shows that I grew up watching. In my opinion, it doesn't matter how old or outdated the song is, as long as it's good, I'll continue to enjoy it.
ReplyDeleteThree genres of music that I want to highlight on this blog are 80s, 90s and early 2000s music such as Classic, Hey There Delilah, September, Under Pressure and Africa to name a few. They fill me with heavy nostalgia and an appreciation for that era of music, especially the ones that I grew up listening to like Africa and Let's Groove for example.
As for reasons for taking this course, I found the description of the class to be very interesting and a subject that I thought I would enjoy taking. Like I said in the previous paragraph, music is very important to me, so getting to dive deeper into music and how technologies and media work in connecting people had me intrigued and excited.
Hi Naomi! Great job with your post. I totally relate to your comment on using music to fill silent space. I tend to do that a lot whether I am cleaning, doing my makeup, cooking, or studying. Also, all the songs you named are some of my favourites as well! I relate to the nostalgia you get when listening to them.
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