So pop music pretty much spent the morning being ripped on, and I figured in the spirit of American law I'd give it a fair defense. First, I don't think all pop lyrics are shallow and that only indie music has any value. Look at a recent pop song, Empire State of Mind. The song was written by two women from New York who had to spend an extended period of time abroad and missed their hometown; they wrote the song to combat homesickness and extol the virtues of their city. Shallow? Or heartfelt? I say the latter.
Take Weezer too...listen to their latest single (which is heard on the radio), "I Want You To". Great use of rhythm, blending of musical styles, and the lyrics describe a situation that I can almost guarantee everyone has been through in their life...again, who can't relate to that?
Finally, I know its trendy especially among college students to dismiss anything on the radio as musically worthless. Yet, I think it shouldn't be forgotten that many pop musicians got where they are because they have an immense amount of talent. Alicia Keys for instance...someone who can write music, play piano, and sing that well is pretty rare- same for Billy Joel. Mariah Carey has some of the greatest vocal range you'll ever find; Dr. Dre's ability to mix beats (which you hear in many pop songs) is unparalleled; even the much maligned Jessica Simpson has a really nice voice.
So I guess what I'm trying to say is not all pop music sucks, and it definitely does not deserve to be painted with such a broad brush. Defense rests.
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