I will summarize and share views over an analysis of numerous posts and articles about Andre 3000, Cleo Sol, Jill Scott, and Lil Wayne.
Andre 3000 is an Atlanta-raised rapper, songwriter, producer, and actor, better known for his iconic hip-hop duo with Big Boi called Outkast. After 17 years of silence, Andre 3000 drops his first-ever solo album “New Blue sun.” More specifically, I’ll be critiquing an analysis of the individual song “The Slang Word P(*)ssy Rolls Off The Tongue With Far Better Ease Than The Proper Word Vagina. Do You Agree?” The student first compares the melody to songs one plays at a funeral or a wedding. I do understand the correlation due to the use of an organ-sounding instrument in the beginning, however, I don’t fully agree. Personally, the beginning simply serves as an introduction to set the serene mood for the remainder of the song. Additionally, the student further describes the minimal instrument use and “irregular beats” and chords throughout. Because of these sporadic beats within the song, I agree with the analysis point of the song possibly being labeled as a “free jazz fusion.” Overall Andre 3000 created this soothing melody with numerous jazz aspects and complex rhythms that could be widely interpreted.
Cleo Sol was born and raised in London and is mostly known for her R&B and neo-soul-infused music. influence. Although she had the impact of reggae and Hip-Hop from her parents’ Jamaican and Sierra Leonean heritage, Sol’s heart leaned towards the R&B scene. During this analysis, I wholeheartedly agree with the student’s illustration of Sol’s music not only does her musicality shape her artistry, but also her relatability to life experiences such as heartbreak, women “empowerment, and self-discovery.” Cleo Sol’s modern take on R&B captivates the attention of many listeners due to her “raw emotion” and effortless quality.
Jill Heather Scott, better known as Jill Scott, is a singer, songwriter, and actor born and raised in Philadelphia. Scott began her performance journey after dropping out during her sophomore year of college. She was first recognized for her spoken word performances at poetry slams. A little later in her poetry career, Ahmir Thomas/Questlove, a member of the band “The Roots,” recognized her artistry and helped her jump-start her professional career as a singer. Jill Scott and Questlove collaborated on writing the song “You Got Me” which later won a Grammy in 2000. The student further describes her achievements during her acting and singing journey. I wish this student would have dug deeper into her influences, inspiration, and personal thoughts on her artistry and spoken word. Overall the students did a great job explaining her highway to success and achievments.
Dwayne Carter Jr, better known as Lil Wayne, is a southern rapper from New Orleans, Louisiana who began his rap career at the age of twelve. Dwayne Carter Jr was a straight-A student but felt his true intelligence was shown through his world play in music. Five years later, Wayne received his platinum certification with the group “The Hot Boys.” After this first achievement, he immediately switched to the solo life and became a mainstream “superstar.” After dropping the album, “Tha Carter III,” he earned three Grammy awards and Best Album of the Year. Ever since Wayne has consistently dropped hit albums and features and became known for his iconic lyricism and delivery.
