By Andre Hernandez
Music has been a very simple way of attracting an audience. Develop a track with a catchy hook and a very popular song will arise. However, to fully express an idea or a message on a touchy subject, that’s a bit more challenging. It has been a roller coaster of a year in 2016, with many lives lost and voices heard in an effort to heal a wounded country.
Recently, the Black Eyed Peas re-released “Where is the Love”, one of their hit singles from 2003. After much discussion and questioning, many people seemd to have the same interpretation. After speaking with one person in particular, the moral seemed to reveal itself; “ The message that is being told by the Black Eyed Peas is one of self-recognition. We must see the problems that we are faced with now, much like we did in 2003”.
The Black Eyed Peas probably released the song with no intention of it being a smash hit; nonetheless, they aimed their message at those whose hearts are filled with hate and asked simply, where is the love?
Being the artist known as Drake comes with a lot ofexpectations. Having single after single that seemed to give flavor to the world make the need for a monster album a reality. Drake released the album Views in late April and listeners were astounded. Immediately following the album’s debut, Drake struck gold. It was only a matter of time before it was announced that 18 of the 20 songs on the album Views were apart of Billboard’s top 100.
The high point of the summer for Drake was when song One Dance was Billboard’s Top song for seven consecutive weeks, tying with none other than Michael Jackson.
Avid music listeners can tell you when a fresh new presence of artist has been established in the music industry. Chance the Rapper has the rap industry in his grasp since his latest album; Coloring Book seems to embody an emotional, vibrant piece of work that hasn’t been seen in rap prior to this. His music as well as his peace, love, and above all, attitude landed him the opportunity to sing a very sincere tribute song to the great Muhammad Ali, as well as producing a track dedicated to the USA Olympic team. Greatness is in the future of this talented, young Chicagoan artist, so ears and eyes should look and listen for anything music related to be released in the near future.
Throughout the year, one common theme was present in the music of most artist. Unity and togetherness has been a staple point in this year of music. There is no argument against the fact that music is a cure for the soul, and that is the point that many fail to understand. Often times the music industry takes the back seat to such issues as; violence, attacks on society, and other extremities that many musicians actually feel they are voicing in defense. Artists are now aware of the power they possess, serving as a voice for the people, and in turn people should lend their ears to its creator.
