Week 2 Blog Post
The song "I Got Rhythm" by George and Ira Gershwin is a jazz standard that is effective in evoking feelings of gratitude in its listener. This is accomplished throughout the song both musically and lyrically.
The music that first accompanies the singer has a very reflective quality to it – this is accomplished by omitting the percussion section and utilizing slow, sighing winds. The rest of the song is very energetic and dance-like, featuring blaring winds and upbeat drums and cymbals.
Though the song is titled “I Got Rhythm,” the line that is repeated most in the song is “Who could ask for anything more?” – this line is reference to the singer’s partner, as well as simple pleasures in life such as daisies, starlight, and sweet dreams. This is a statement that we as people should take more time to think and admire how much there is to be grateful for in life and not take people or small wonders for granted.
Another repeated line is “Old man trouble, I don’t mind him, You won’t find him ‘round my door” – a message we can take from this is to not let the problems we encounter in life prevent us from finding happiness.
My favorite part of this song is near the end when short trumpet blares are used to mimic percussion hits, as this is a fun and interesting use of the instrument.
I listened to this song and I really like it too, Walter. I especially liked the lyrics. They all seem to display this kind of "I don't care about what is going on, I'm going to be happy anyways" sort of an idea. This is in the middle of the cold war Where there is a lot of fear going around. But this song invites us to just to be chipper all day and recognize the thigs that we have.
ReplyDeleteI listened to this song, and I loved it. I agree it does invoke gratuitous feelings, but also just unadulterated joy for life. The upbeat rhythm and melody of the song are my favorite parts. It creates this lively and happy vibe. And while the loudness of Ethel Merman’s singing can be a bit hard to listen to (personally), it adds to the whole effect of the song.
ReplyDelete^^^ This is Frances Pelicano by the way, I didn't realize that I was signed out when I commented on Walter's post.
ReplyDeleteI just used this song for my blogpost and I really like the meaning of it. The lyrics go over simple things that I’m sure everyone takes for granted at some point that are actually some of the happiest parts of our lives. It not only focuses on being grateful and happy, but also goes over staying positive even when problems present themselves.
ReplyDeleteI think you talked well about that song. You summed up everything in a very correct and precise way. I also really enjoyed the descriptions that you gave about the song. Finally, I would say that I like the background that you used for your blog ! :)
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