From the 1940s onward, there has been a greater diversity of sounds and instruments used in country music. Right along with the fiddle, steel guitar, banjo, harmonica, and mandolin—the harpsichord is included on occasion—even as far back as the late 1950s. I admit that I found this very surprising.
Harpsichord continues to be used in recordings—sometimes only in the background, but often it takes a prominent role. I find it fascinating how many ways this versatile instrument is used.
This blog is the third in a series that explores the use of harpsichord in popular music. The harpsichord continued to be used after the 1960s to provide a background filler or a distinctive timbre for solos.
In the 1940s and 1950s (outside of classical music) the harpsichord had been more or less a prop or novelty instrument in jazz and popular music. During the 1960s, the harpsichord became an unlikely star. It was everywhere and in all kinds of music—from TV and movie themes, to jazz, country, soul, easy listening, and of course pop . . . especially Baroque Pop and psychedelia. This blog is the second in a series that explores the use of harpsichord in popular music.
Several years ago, much to my surprise, I realized that I have been hearing the harpsichord in literally hundreds of songs on the radio and in recordings for years. Why have I never noticed that? I decided to research the use of harpsichord in popular music.
I am fascinated with singers who are also drummers. The two crafts seem like opposites since, on the surface, drumming is all about rhythm and singing is all about melody.
Spring is my favorite season. It is a breath of fresh air after cold, dreary winter days. Warmer weather and more sunshine bring a feeling of newness and rebirth. Flowers begin to bloom and trees grow their leaves again—the sights and smells of spring feel magical.
It can be argued that melody is the most memorable aspect of a song. And, I would agree. However, often simply hearing a certain combination of words brings to mind a familiar song. Song couplets help make songs memorable and frequently highlight the pinnacle of a story, provide a thought-provoking turn of phrase, or even take a sharp turn as a surprise. Well-written couplets which flow organically from the lyrics delight the listener and the lyricist.
Music has a way of speaking right to the heart. And, most especially, love songs express what we can’t say with mere words. I want to share my Top Ten Favorite Love Songs—just in time for Valentine’s Day!
Fall is not my favorite season. However, I do enjoy the cooler days with less humidity. I love the crispness of the air. I love the bold colors of the foliage on the trees, and watching the leaves drift gracefully through the sky to the ground. The smell of freshly raked leaves brings pleasant memories of raking leaves with my parents and of being able to rake leaves in my own yard as an adult.
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