Can't stop the (classical) music
Digest
This episode of "It's Been a Minute" features a conversation with trombonist, composer, and Howard University professor Miles Blakemore. Blakemore shares his passion for Johann Sebastian Bach and how Bach's influence can be heard in the music of artists like Nina Simone. He explains how Bach's mastery of counterpoint, a technique where multiple melodies are played simultaneously, is evident in Simone's music, particularly in her song "Little Girl Blue." Blakemore also discusses the evolution of jazz music, tracing its origins back to military bands and the use of classical instruments by Black musicians in the streets of New Orleans. He highlights the connection between classical music and jazz, arguing that classical music provides the building blocks for other genres. The episode concludes with a segment where host Brittany Luse and producer Corey Antonio discuss the impact of Justin Bieber's music on the music industry and the concept of fame in the digital age.
Outlines
Dignity Memorial Advertisement
This Chapter is an advertisement for Dignity Memorial, a company that provides funeral and memorial services. The advertisement emphasizes the importance of pre-planning for end-of-life arrangements and the peace of mind it provides for families.
Exploring Black Contributions to Classical Music
This Chapter introduces Miles Blakemore, a trombonist, composer, and Howard University professor, who is passionate about classical music. He discusses the underrepresentation of Black artists in classical music and his own journey as a Black classical musician. Blakemore highlights the influence of Johann Sebastian Bach on his music and his recent album "Bockish," which is a tribute to Bach.
Bach's Influence on Nina Simone
This Chapter delves into the connection between Bach and Nina Simone. Blakemore explains how Simone's love for Bach stemmed from her early aspirations to be a classical pianist. He discusses Simone's experience being denied admission to the Curtis Institute of Music and how this led her to pursue a career in jazz. Blakemore argues that Simone considered jazz to be "Black Classical Music" and that her music reflects Bach's influence through the use of counterpoint.
Songs for the History Books
This Chapter features a segment where host Brittany Luse and producer Corey Antonio discuss songs that should be included in music history books. Antonio suggests Justin Bieber's "One Time" as a song that represents the shift in the music industry and the rise of internet fame. He argues that Bieber's success through YouTube paved the way for many other artists to gain recognition and build careers through social media platforms.
Keywords
Johann Sebastian Bach
A renowned German composer of the Baroque era, known for his mastery of counterpoint and his influential works, including the Brandenburg Concertos, the Mass in B Minor, and the Goldberg Variations. His music is characterized by its intricate polyphony, complex harmonies, and emotional depth. Bach's compositions have had a profound impact on Western music and continue to be studied and performed worldwide.
Nina Simone
An American singer, songwriter, pianist, and civil rights activist, known for her powerful voice and her interpretations of jazz, blues, folk, and classical music. Simone's music often addressed themes of race, social justice, and personal struggles. Her most famous songs include "I Put a Spell on You," "Mississippi Goddam," and "Ain't Got No, I Got Life." Simone's legacy as a musical icon and a voice for social change continues to inspire generations.
Counterpoint
A musical technique where two or more independent melodies are played simultaneously, creating a complex and harmonious texture. Counterpoint is a hallmark of classical music, particularly in the works of composers like Johann Sebastian Bach. It involves the careful arrangement of melodic lines to create a sense of interplay and balance. Counterpoint can be found in various musical genres, including jazz, pop, and electronic music.
Jazz
A genre of music that originated in the African American communities of New Orleans in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Jazz is characterized by improvisation, syncopation, and a strong emphasis on rhythm. It has evolved over the years into various subgenres, including bebop, cool jazz, and fusion. Jazz has had a significant influence on other musical genres, including rock, pop, and soul.
Classical Music
A broad genre of music that encompasses a wide range of styles and periods, from the Renaissance to the present day. Classical music is typically characterized by its formal structure, complex harmonies, and use of instruments such as the piano, violin, cello, and orchestra. It includes works by composers such as Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, and Brahms. Classical music is often associated with high culture and is enjoyed by audiences worldwide.
Military Band
A musical ensemble that typically consists of brass and percussion instruments. Military bands have a long history, dating back to ancient times. They were originally used for ceremonial purposes, but they have also played a role in military training and entertainment. Military bands often perform marches, patriotic songs, and other traditional music.
Howard University
A historically Black university located in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1867, Howard University is known for its academic excellence and its commitment to social justice. It has produced many notable alumni, including Thurgood Marshall, Toni Morrison, and Chadwick Boseman. Howard University is a leading institution in the African American community and plays a vital role in educating and empowering Black students.
Justin Bieber
A Canadian singer, songwriter, and actor who rose to fame in the early 2010s through YouTube. Bieber's music is primarily pop and R&B, and he has released several hit albums, including "My World 2.0," "Believe," and "Purpose." Bieber's success has been attributed to his use of social media and his ability to connect with a young audience. He has also been a controversial figure, but his influence on the music industry and the concept of fame is undeniable.
Internet Fame
The phenomenon of achieving widespread recognition and popularity through online platforms, particularly social media. Internet fame can be achieved through various means, such as viral videos, social media campaigns, and online content creation. It has become increasingly common in the digital age, with many individuals and groups gaining significant followings and influence online.
Q&A
How did Miles Blakemore become interested in classical music?
Blakemore's interest in classical music began in fourth grade when he saw a high school marching band perform at his elementary school. He was captivated by the music and the energy of the band, which inspired him to join the band himself. He was initially assigned to play the trombone because of his long arms.
What is counterpoint and how does it relate to Bach and Nina Simone?
Counterpoint is a musical technique where multiple independent melodies are played simultaneously, creating a complex and harmonious texture. Bach was a master of counterpoint, and his influence can be heard in Simone's music, particularly in her song "Little Girl Blue." The opening of "Little Girl Blue" features a series of melodies that build upon each other, creating a crescendo that culminates in Simone's voice. This technique is reminiscent of Bach's use of counterpoint.
How did jazz music evolve from its roots in military bands?
Jazz music originated in the African American communities of New Orleans, where Black musicians used instruments from military bands, such as the saxophone, trumpet, and drums, to create their own unique style of music. These instruments were readily available and affordable, allowing musicians to experiment and develop their own sound. Jazz music evolved from the streets of New Orleans and has since become a global genre.
How did Justin Bieber's music change the music industry and the concept of fame?
Justin Bieber's rise to fame through YouTube in the early 2010s marked a significant shift in the music industry. Prior to Bieber, artists were typically discovered through traditional methods, such as A&R representatives and marketing campaigns. Bieber's success demonstrated the power of the internet and social media in building a fanbase and launching a career. His fame also reflected a broader change in how we think about celebrities, as internet platforms have made it easier for individuals to achieve fame for various reasons.
Show Notes
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