The Soundtracking of America
http://www.theatlantic.com/issues/2000/03/bottum.htm
When we initially read Bottum’s article for class, I didn’t give it much thought and kinda just lumped it in with Hornby and Klosterman’s articles in terms of style. I don’t know why I did that because it turns out this could be a more valuable resource to me than I had previously anticipated. My point in the final is all about how music can provide a “live” soundtrack for sports, and this article is about the little moments in life can be set to certain songs if one gives it enough thought. Another interesting portion has to do with the futility of lyrics in songs. This can be evidenced at the arenas across the country. You don’t have to sing along to follow the beat. Does anyone even know all the words to “We Will Rock You”? No, and that’s not the point. Without the “stomp, stomp, clap” backbeat, I doubt this would have even caught on and become the archetype and anthem that it is, which is sort of the point Bottum toys with in his article.
3 years ago • Notes