Hear No Evil

Here’s a Ted Talk about what constitutes beautiful music by using an example of the ugliest song conceived.

It’s a fascinating story, and it got me thinking about pop vs progressive… crap vs substance.  If we all perceive pattern and repetition as pleasing (except for those crazy jazz folk), where is the line between good and evil music?

I propose this:  Music is the anticipation of patterns.  By the use of repetition, an expectation is presented of what is to come.  Pop music fulfills this expectation with little surprise.  It’s boring but comfortable.  One of the most basic human emotions is comfort and security.  

Progressive music builds up similar patterns - except it tricks you and deviates away at the last second leaving you confused and vulnerable to their new direction.  This elicits a different emotion - one of surprise, astonishment, awareness, appreciation, exploration.  These are higher emotions which I believe contributed to our evolution

Pop music is easy - the high-fructose processed food that mechanically hits all of our pleasure centers.  Progressive music is challenging, requires effort and ultimate better for the soul.  What two people are going to bond over the common passion for the latest Rhianna jam?  Who is going to annoy all of their friends with their passion about the latest Gaga duet?

Music is the greatest gift to man.  It can be used for both good and for evil.

Hear no evil.

posted by skorch