The Impact of Music Genres on Society.

Since the beginning of our existence, mankind has been producing music; it has always been an integral part of our social interactions. It allows us to express feelings and even ideas that we simply can’t put into words. It’s interesting to note how our ability to produce music has only grown and gotten better as our society has grown and our social interactions have changed. This is clear evidence that music gives a deeper and more meaningful social interaction.

At first, music was closely related to religion, as part of different rituals and ceremonies. This music was more about the rhythm rather than melody. Complex notes weren’t possible with the rudimentary tools we had. Yet music endured and helped people access said rituals, it encouraged transcendental states of mind. As we advanced, so did our musical prowess, especially the way we made music itself.

During the Middle Ages, music reflected the uptight society. Heavily influenced by religion once again, music was constantly used to remind us that God was watching, and damning sinners left to right. Our ability to produce melodies improved drastically, giving us more complex instruments. However the melodies and more complex notes were used on monotone, somewhat droll music.

Then came the Renaissance a time of change. The more complex notes, rhythms and melodies were perfect for the new movement. Humans were looking for new, complex ways of expressing themselves. They naturally turned to music in search of new ways of expression, of sharing and above all Enlightenment. Music became an art, rather than part of rituals or ceremonies. At the time several, several music figures changed the way music was perceived, instead of using it to praise God, they went ahead and praised humanity, themselves even. Some of these notable figures were Nicolo Pagganini, Ludwig Van Beethoven, Amadeus Mozart, and Chopin. These men were controversial, since their music certainly broke the norm. They were all about being complex, giving hard to follow melodies. This was a clear reflection of the changing society.

Music hasn’t stopped evolving with times though. Different genres have been present during different historical events. For example, during the times of slavery, oppressed slaves shared their sorrows in sad ballads, these developed into what we know today as blues. During the 40’s it further developed into what we know as rock and roll. Later in the 60’s this rebellious music was used a sort of an anti-war anthem.

Modern music reflects our society by being heavily based on technology and electronic instruments, exactly like the society developing it. This music is more about the beat and he thrills it gives while listening to it. Just like our youth; who are more concerned about the present and living it. However fast music changes, we can only be certain that as society changes, so will our music.