Exploring the Evolution of Pop Music: 3 Iconic Examples of Popular Culture Melodies
Pop music is a genre that has remained relevant over the years, with its fans growing with every generation. It is a genre that is constantly evolving to reflect the times. Pop music is a reflection of popular culture, and its melodies are often the soundtrack to social movements and cultural changes.
In this article, we will explore the evolution of pop music by examining three iconic examples of popular culture melodies. Through this, we will gain insights into how the genre has evolved, and how popular culture has influenced it.
The Beatles – ‘I Want to Hold Your Hand’
The Beatles were one of the first supergroups of the music industry, and their influence on pop music cannot be overstated. Their song ‘I Want to Hold Your Hand’ was a significant milestone in the evolution of pop music. It was the first pop song that featured a simple, catchy melody that was easy to sing along to. The song was a departure from the complex melodies that had dominated pop music until that point. This simplicity made the song more accessible to a larger audience, allowing pop music to become a mass market phenomenon.
Michael Jackson – ‘Billie Jean’
Michael Jackson was another significant figure in the evolution of pop music. He was the first artist to make pop music more than just a sound – his music videos were an event in themselves. His hit song ‘Billie Jean’ was a perfect example of this. The song’s iconic bass line and danceable rhythm made it a hit, but it was the accompanying music video that really propelled it to stardom. The video set a new benchmark for music videos, combining complex dance choreography with cinematic storytelling.
Beyoncé – ‘Formation’
Beyoncé is one of the most influential artists of the 21st century, and her hit song ‘Formation’ is a perfect example of how pop music has evolved. The song was released in the aftermath of the Black Lives Matter movement and served as a rallying cry for Black culture. The song’s lyrics were overtly political and tackled issues of race and representation head-on. The song’s accompanying music video featured imagery that celebrated Black culture, from the New Orleans setting to the dancers dressed in Black Panther-style costumes. The song is an excellent example of how pop music has become intertwined with social activism.
Conclusion
Pop music is a genre that continues to evolve in response to the culture and politics of the times. The three examples discussed in this article demonstrate how the genre has moved from simple and catchy melodies to complex music videos that transform songs into events. Pop music has become more than just music – it is now a cultural phenomenon that reflects and influences popular culture.
