The Role Of Music In A Popular Culture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Role Of Music In A Popular Culture - Essay Example Hamerlinck identities such genre as 'woman-killing songs' based on 'murder ballads' popular during the 1920s. Physical and emotional violence, supported by slang words and abusive language, was widely used by blues artists. With the development of MTV and video, 'woman killing songs' became a part of video production and clips. Hamerlinck names such well-known groups as The Beatles, singers Jimmi Handrix and Charles Manson who use themes of homicide and infidelity in their lyrics. Hamerlinck underlines that music does not cause violence but reflect tendencies typical for mass culture: "songs are not about love; they are about power and control" (Hamerlinck). Rap and rock are the main genres which base their lyrics on themes of violence and low social status of woman. They depict women as light-minded and dissolute persons. Also, a special attention is given to body which is too much sexualized. For instance, in "My Humps" the singers stress: "They say they love my ass 'n" or Tryin' a feel my hump, hump. Lookin' at my lump, lump". Paying attention to sexualized body images, this song tends to promote desire for sex which is aimed to satisfy longing. Using such slang words as "lump" and "hump" describing parts of her body, the singer (a girl) underlines negative attitude towards women and their sexual attractiveness. NWA (Niggaz With Attitude), Dr.